Effects of Real-Time Visual Finger-Movement Feedback on Finger Tapping Performance in Older Adults

Background/Objectives: Manual dexterity is closely associated with cognitive function and frailty among older adults, highlighting the importance of finger rehabilitation and broader sensorimotor training in older adults. This study investigated whether a real-time visual augmented feedback system for finger movements used during a finger-tapping task could enhance tapping performance in older adults. The study also aimed to examine whether feedback effects differ between the relatively simple simultaneous tapping task and the more demanding alternating tapping task.

Methods

Participants included 37 middle-aged and older adults aged 60 years or older (7 men, 30 women). A magnetic sensor-based finger-tapping device was used to measure finger-tapping performance while participants received real-time feedback on their finger movements. Performance was evaluated using speed-related indices, including the number of taps, and coordination-related measures.