Age and ageing
Multicomponent exercise with virtual reality for preventing functional decline in hospitalized older adults: a randomized, three-arm, parallel clinical trial
By Martinez-Velilla N, Zambom-Ferraresi F, de-la-Riva MF and 10 others.
Abstract
Background
Acute hospitalization often triggers functional decline in older adults. While multicomponent exercise programs (MEP) are effective, the role of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) remains underexplored in acute geriatric wards. This study evaluated the efficacy of a VR-enhanced MEP program compared with conventional MEP and usual care (UC).
Methods
Randomized, three-arm, parallel clinical trial in an acute geriatric ward. Patients aged ≥75 years were randomized to receive 1) MEP, 2) MEP-VR, or 3) UC. The primary outcome was the change in functional capacity, as measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Secondary outcomes included the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, cognitive status (MMSE), Barthel Index, Quality of Life (EuroQol-5D-5L), and muscle strength.