Citation

Marivan K, Boully C, Benveniste S, Reingewirtz S, Rigaud AS, Kemoun G, Bloch F. Technol. Health Care 2015; 24(2): 169-175.

Affiliation

Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, European Society for Engineering and Medicine, Publisher IOS Press)

DOI

10.3233/THC-151114

PMID

26578283

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A fall in elderly subjects can lead to serious psychological consequences. These symptoms can develop into Fear of Falling with behavioural disorders comparable to PTSD that may severely limit autonomy. Virtual reality training (VRT) could be seen as a worthwhile therapeutic approach for this syndrome since it has been shown to be a useful tool for motor rehabilitation in combat-related PTSD. We thus developed a training scenario for VRT with psychomotor therapists.

OBJECTIVE: To test the feasibility and acceptability of VRT when used by elderly adults for fall rehabilitation.

METHODS: Our population of 8 patients older than 75 years, with a Mini Mental Score Examination greater than 18/30 performed sessions of VRT and answered a questionnaire on the feasibility and acceptability of it.

RESULTS: This sample showed a highly favourable response to the prototype VRT. They found it easy to use, enjoyed the experience, and thought it realistic and helpful.

CONCLUSION: The conclusions of our study are limited by sample size. However, applications with VRT can offer the potential of an acceptable technique for elderly subjects. The next step will be to show the efficacy of this method in the management of post-fall PTSD.

Language: en