Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Balance Training for Fall Prevention in Older Adults: Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in balance training for the prevention of falls in older adults. Methods: We included studies with experimental designs, cohort studies, and quasi-experimental studies of older adults who underwent balance training associated with the use of VR for the prevention of falls. The comparison of control and intervention groups in the studies reported statistically significant improvements in terms of balance for VR. Results: The effects and benefits from the use of VR were seen by the fourth week of intervention, with significant improvements in balance and lower fall rates, the improvements became greater for groups using VR. Conclusions: The benefits presented by the studies were related not only to balance but also to fear of falling, reaction time, gait, physical fitness, independence in activities of daily living, muscle strength, and even quality of life.