he effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) therapy on balance and mobility in elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction. Balance impairments and mobility limitations are prevalent challenges among elderly individuals, often contributing to an increased risk of falls and a diminished quality of life. Traditional physiotherapy interventions have effectively addressed these issues, but novel approaches, such as virtual reality (VR) therapy, have emerged as potential enhancements to rehabilitation protocols. Through its immersive environments, VR therapy may engage and challenge patients, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Objective. To investigate whether VR therapy enhances balance and mobility outcomes in elderly patients compared with a traditional physiotherapy protocol. Methods. Sixty elderly individuals, aged 65 and above, referred for outpatient physiotherapy due to balance and mobility issues, were recruited for this randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two parallel arms. They were randomly allocated to the intervention group, treated with VR therapy sessions, while the control group received traditional physiotherapy sessions focused on balance exercises and mobility. The treatment duration was twice a week for over 8 weeks. Baseline assessments were conducted before the intervention, and follow-up assessments were performed immediately after the 8-week intervention period. Outcome Measures. Primary Outcome: Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) as the primary outcome, while mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and quality of life was evaluated using the EQ-5D Questionnaire as the secondary outcome. Results. The VR therapy group demonstrated a more significant improvement in balance (BBS score increase of 12.4 points) than the control group (BBS score increase of 7.6 points). Regarding mobility, the VR group reduced TUG time by 3.8 seconds, compared to 2.8 seconds in the control group, indicating faster completion times and improved functional mobility. The VR group reported a more significant increase in quality of life (0.17 EQ-5D improvement) compared to the control group (0.12 improvement), suggesting that immersive therapy positively impacted overall well-being. Conclusion. It was anticipated that the VR therapy group would demonstrate more significant improvements in balance, mobility, and quality of life than those in the traditional physiotherapy group.