Can exercises using virtual reality games reduce risk and fear of falls among older women

Background & Aim: The objective of this study was to compare the risk and fear of falls among older women pre and post intervention using virtual reality games. Method: Thirty six community dwelling older women aged 56 and above were randomly divided into experimental (exercises using virtual reality games focus on improving balance) and control (conventional balance exercises) groups. Both groups attended an hour exercise session, twice a week for 6 weeks. Risk and fear of falls were measured using Physiological Profile Assessment (PPA) and Activity Specific Balance Scale (ABC-6). Pre and post intervention differences between the groups were examined. Results: Both the groups, virtual experiment and control group, had significant decrease in fall risk score after the interventions of exercises using virtual reality games and conventional balance exercise respectively (Z = - 3.38, p = 0.001 for experimental group; Z = - 2.50, p = 0.01 for control group). Significant difference was only demonstrated in the experiment group for ABC, t(17) = -2.78, p = 0.013. No significant differences were shown between the groups in risk and fear of falls post intervention. Conclusion: Practicing fun and interactive exercises using virtual reality games can focus on improving balance at home and reducing risk of falls in older adults.