Wii™ and fall prevention: An approach to improving balance in older adults – pilot study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71399/hcagkw98Keywords:
Geriatrics; fall risk; balance; conventional rehabilitationAbstract
Introduction: By 2030, one third of the population will be >60 years, increasing functional limitations and balance disorders linked to vestibular ageing. Rehabilitation aims to compensate these deficits by engaging vision, proprioception and motor control. This study compared Wii™-based rehabilitation with a conventional method in older adults able to interact with a virtual environment.Objective: To assess whether Wii™ is a relevant and motivating tool to prevent falls by improving balance in older adults.
Methods: Randomised two-group trial (Wii™ vs. conventional). Pre- and post-treatment assessments included the Berg Balance Scale, TUG, SPPB, Functional Independence Measure and a balance confidence scale.
Results: The conventional group showed greater improvements in balance, physical capacity and confidence. Wii™, while less effective functionally, improved static balance and increased motivation.
Discussion/Conclusion: Conventional rehabilitation was more effective overall. Wii™ exergames may be complementary tools, especially with supervised initiation and good interaction with the virtual environment.
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