EFFECTS OF VIRTUAL REALITY-BASED WALKING-IN-PLACE EXERCISE (VR-WIPE) ON STEP COUNT AND BALANCE CONTROL ABILITY IN THE ELDERLY

As the global population ages, older adults face reduced physical function and increased risks of falls. Virtual reality-based walking-in-place exercise (VR-WIPE) simulates walking movements, making it a safer alternative for older adults, particularly those at risk of falling. This study aims to evaluate the effects of VR-WIPE on step count and balance control ability in older adults. It seeks to determine whether VR-WIPE is more effective than traditional exercise methods in improving these parameters. Twenty older women (aged 65 and over) participated in this study, conducted over four weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to a control group (seated cycling) or an experimental group (VR-WIPE). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to measure balance control ability and step count, using the short form berg balance scale (SFBBS) and PHYSIO sensing equipment. Post-intervention, the VR-WIPE group showed significant improvements in SFBBS scores, forward–backward walking, and postural sway measures, compared to the control group. Step count during the 2-min walking-in-place task also significantly increased in the VR-WIPE group. The study concludes that VR-WIPE is more effective than traditional seated cycling in improving step count and balance control ability in older adults. The findings suggest that VR-WIPE could be a valuable rehabilitation tool for fall prevention and improving physical function.