Mixed Reality-Based Physical Therapy in Older Adults With Sarcopenia: Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sarcopenia in older adults leads to frailty, falls, and reduced quality of life (QOL).
• Mixed Reality (MR)-based interventions offer immersive and interactive physical therapy.
• MR may enhance engagement and effectiveness in geriatric rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a Mixed Reality-Based Physical Therapy (Mr.PT) platform.
• Assess effects on quadricep muscle thickness, balance confidence, daily activities, and QOL.
• Investigate Mr.PT efficacy in older adults diagnosed with sarcopenia.

Main Methods:

• Preliminary randomized controlled trial with 30 older women with sarcopenia.
• Intervention groups: Mr.PT (gamified MR) vs. Conventional Physical Activity (CPA).
• 4-week, 3x/week sessions; outcome measures included muscle thickness, balance, ADLs, and QOL.

Main Results:

• Mr.PT group showed significantly greater improvement in quadricep muscle thickness (P=.001).
• Both groups improved balance and daily functioning, but not significantly different between groups.
• Mr.PT group demonstrated significantly greater QOL gains (P=.02).

Conclusions:

• MR-based exercise via Mr.PT platform effectively increases muscle mass and QOL in older adults with sarcopenia.
• Interactive MR features may boost engagement and motivation compared to traditional therapy.
• Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up is warranted.