Effect of virtual reality training on joint mobility and muscle strength of upper limbs in healthy older adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53591/riaf.v3i2.2312Keywords:
Virtual reality, Rehabilitation, Aged, Joint mobility, Muscle strengthAbstract
Introduction: Progressive loss of joint mobility in older adults can impair their functionality and autonomy. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as an innovative therapeutic alternative to promote active aging through interactive and adaptable environments.
Objectives: To analyze the effect of a virtual reality training program using exergames on upper limb joint mobility in healthy older adults.
Material and Methods: A pre-experimental, longitudinal, quantitative study was conducted with a sample of 20 older adults aged 65 to 80, from a private gerontological institution in Guayaquil. The intervention lasted four months, with individual sessions twice a week lasting 15 to 20 minutes, using the HTC Vive console and three therapeutic video games. Muscle strength was assessed using the Daniels test and joint mobility was evaluated with the goniometric test, both applied pre- and post-intervention.
Results: Following the intervention, 75% of participants reached a “normal” level of muscle strength in both arms. Joint range of motion also showed significant improvements, with most participants achieving “normal” or “good” levels in both limbs. No participants remained in lower categories after the program, indicating a broadly positive response to the intervention.
Discussion: The results demonstrate that exergames in a virtual environment can produce substantial improvements in strength and mobility of the upper limbs in healthy older adults. VR is presented as an effective, engaging, and feasible tool for preventive health strategies in geriatric populations.
Conclusions: Virtual reality is a viable and effective alternative for enhancing physical functionality in older adults, with strong potential for incorporation into preventive geriatric health programs.
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