Effect of the Oculus Rift head mounted display on postural stability

This study explored how a HMD-experienced virtual environment influences physical balance of six balance-impaired adults 59-69 years-of-age, when compared to a control group of eight nonbalance-impaired adults, 18-28 years-of-age. The setup included a Microsoft Kinect and a selfcreated balance board controlling a skiing game. Two tests were conducted: full-vision versus blindfolded and HMD versus monitor display. Results were that five of the six balance-impaired adults and six of the eight non-balance-impaired adults showed higher degree of postural stability while using a monitor display. Conclusions are that HMD, used in this context, leads to postural instability.