THE IMPACT OF PARTICIPATION IN AN IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL REALITY TAI CHI PROGRAM ON THE BALANCE OF OLDER ADULTS
2024
Virtual Reality Tai Chi Improves Balance in Older Adults
Sample size: 18
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Kim Jaehyun, Lobos Marcos Ardon, Park Serim, Oh Seungjun, Kim Jay, Kim Junhyoung
Primary Institution: East Carolina University
Hypothesis
Does participation in an immersive virtual reality Tai Chi program improve the balance of older adults?
Conclusion
The immersive virtual reality Tai Chi program significantly improved the balance of older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Eighteen older adults participated in the study.
- Participants completed the Berg Balance test before and after the intervention.
- The results showed significant improvement in balance scores after the IVTC sessions.
- The effect size of the intervention was large (d = -2.75).
- Participants rated the usability of the program very favorably.
Takeaway
Older adults who practiced Tai Chi in virtual reality got better at balancing, which can help prevent falls.
Methodology
Participants completed eight 15-minute immersive virtual reality Tai Chi sessions and were assessed using the Berg Balance test before and after the intervention.
Participant Demographics
Older adults from senior centers in North Carolina.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website