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Implementation of a Virtual Reality-Based Program for Fall Risk Reduction in Older Adults in Primary Health Care
Sebastián Burgos-Carrasco1, Yislem Barrientos-Cabrera2, Valentina Rivera-Mora3
1Académico Escuela de Terapia Ocupacional, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Las Américas, Concepción 4030000, Chile.
Summary
Immersive virtual reality (IVR) exergames show promise for preventing falls in older adults at risk of frailty. This study suggests IVR is feasible for primary health care, potentially improving mobility and reducing fall risk.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Aging leads to physical and cognitive decline, increasing fall risk in older adults.
- Falls in older adults pose a significant public health challenge, impacting independence and healthcare costs.
- Immersive virtual reality (IVR) exergames offer engaging, adaptable sensory-motor-cognitive stimulation for fall prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and implementation of an IVR-based falls prevention program for frail older adults in primary health care.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of IVR exergames in reducing fall risk and improving physical and psychological outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental pre-post design with 40 participants (20 IVR/exergames, 20 control).
- A 12-week intervention with twice-weekly sessions, including baseline and post-intervention assessments.
- Primary outcome: fall risk (Timed Up and Go test); Secondary outcomes: physical performance (SPPB, grip strength), fall efficacy (FES-I, ABC).
Main Results:
- Expected reduction in Timed Up and Go (TUG) test times, indicating improved mobility.
- Feasibility assessed via recruitment, adherence, retention, and cybersickness.
- Preliminary evidence for IVR program integration into primary health care settings.
Conclusions:
- IVR exergames present a feasible and potentially effective strategy for falls prevention in older adults within primary health care.
- The study provides a foundation for larger trials investigating IVR's role in geriatric fall prevention programs.
