DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000393 ISSN: 2379-2868

Effects of Dual-Task Virtual Reality Training on Motor-Cognitive Function and Phase Angle in Older Adults: A Feasibility Study

Sergio A. Marín Barreto, Elizabeth De O. Barbosa, Mauricio S. Da Costa, Maria J. Guimarães Camargo, Laura X. Plata Olarte, Jeison A. Monrroy Gomez, Camila F.C.e.C.M. Brandão, José Vitor Vieira Salgado, Renato S. Monteiro-Junior
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Introduction:

Biological changes associated with aging occur in part due to alterations in body composition, which are reflected in declines in physical and cognitive function.

Objectives:

(i) To analyze the effects of a virtual reality-mediated dual-task physical training program on motor ability, cognitive performance, and phase angle in older adults, and (ii) to evaluate its feasibility and adherence.

Method:

A nonrandomized controlled study with 39 older adults divided into two groups: the virtual reality group and the aerobic training group. The following variables were assessed: physical (8-ft up and go [8FUG] and 2-min step test); cognitive (verbal fluency and digit span test [DST-A and DST-B]); dual-task performance (8FUG-cognitive test [8FUG-CT], including cognitive [8FUG-CTcog] and motor [8FUG-CTmotor] components); and phase angle (PhA).

Statistical analysis:

A repeated-measures analysis of variance was applied, considering a 2 × 12 design (groups and assessment time points).

Results:

The virtual reality group showed a greater increase in short-term memory performance on the DST-A ( P = 0.04) and in dual-task cognitive performance on the 8FUG-CTcog ( P = 0.03), as well as an upward trend in long-term memory on the verbal fluency and working memory DST-B. In addition, an increase in PhA ( P = 0.03) and aerobic capacity on the 2-min step test ( P = 0.005) were observed. The aerobic training group showed a trend toward improvement in agility and dynamic balance in the single-task 8FUG ( P = 0.01), as well as in the dual-task motor condition (8FUG-CTmotor) ( P = 0.03). Overall adherence to the study was 77.8%.

Conclusion:

The immersive virtual reality-based intervention is a promising tool for improving cognitive performance under dual-task conditions. Furthermore, it is likely to improve PhA associated with cell membrane integrity.

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