BACKGROUND
Among the elderly population, Parkinson's disease (PD) stands out as a leading contributor to disability. Clinically, the foremost objectives in managing PD involve proactively delaying and preventing disability. Understanding the pivotal role of gait and balance in daily functionality holds substantial clinical significance, signaling imminent disability and prompting a reevaluation of management approaches. A key priority lies in identifying novel and effective interventions for symptoms that substantially contribute to disability.
OBJECTIVE
This paper presents a systematic review that critically examines the existing body of literature on the use of technology in the rehabilitation of older patients with Parkinson's disease. By synthesizing current evidence, we aim to provide insights into the state of the field, identify gaps in knowledge, and offer recommendations for future research and clinical practice.
METHODS
A systematic review of the literature was conducted in September 2023 analyzing manuscripts and articles of the last 5 years from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science databases following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 13 papers were included
RESULTS
A large portion of effective interventions relies on the incorporation of technology, particularly through virtual reality exergames. This technology appears to have effects not only on the cognitive aspect but also on the physical domain. The analysis of the results clearly indicates that, in terms of gait and balance performance, the technological intervention outperforms the traditional approach, irrespective of the specific technology employed.
CONCLUSIONS
This systematic review seeks to shed light on the evolving landscape of technology-assisted rehabilitation for older individuals with Parkinson's disease. As we delve into the available evidence, we will assess the extent to which technology can serve as a valuable adjunct to conventional therapy, offering new avenues for optimized care and improved outcomes in this growing patient demographic. As we sift through the existing evidence, our goal is to evaluate the potential of technology as a valuable supplement to traditional therapy, presenting fresh opportunities for enhanced care and better outcomes in this expanding patient demographic.
CLINICALTRIAL
NA