Wii™ e prevenção de quedas: Uma abordagem para melhorar o equilíbrio em pessoas idosas – estudo-piloto

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.