Virtual Reality Training Affects Center of Pressure (COP)-Based Balance Parameters in Older Individuals

Postural imbalance is a leading cause of injury in older adults. Our study investigated the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR)-based interventions on balance ability in this population. Here, we examined 21 older, healthy adults (75.8 ± 5.2 years old). Participants performed 6 weeks of balance training, twice per week for 30 min; the experimental group donned an Oculus VR headset during the training while control participants did not. To assess balance ability, a force platform measured displacement of the center of pressure (COP) during quiet standing in double-leg, tandem, and single-leg stances with eyes closed pre- and post-assessment. COP measurements included mediolateral (ML) and anterior-posterior (AP) directions for root mean square (RMS), peak-to-peak displacement (MAXD), total excursion (TE), and 95% confidence area ellipse (AE) parameters. Post-training assessments showed improvements (significant decreases) in the COP parameters. Control group COP parameters improved in various stances ranging from a 3% to 40% decrease on average. The VR group improved MAXD, TE, and 95% AE ranging from a 5% to 47% decrease, on average, across various stances post-compared to pre-training. VR-based exercise training programs may encourage older adults to engage in mobility exercises, leading to a reduced risk of falls or injuries.