Virtual reality in the rehabilitation of older adults with stroke. A scope review
Abstract
Introduction. Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in older adults, frequently associated with balance impairments. Virtual reality may promote the recovery of static and dynamic balance; however, evidence in this population is still limited. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of virtual reality on balance in older adults after stroke.
Methodology. A scoping review was conducted following the guidelines of the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and PRISMA–ScR. The databases PubMed, Scopus, and PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) were searched for the identification and selection of studies. The PEDro methodological scale was used to assess the quality of randomized controlled clinical trials in physiotherapy in order to include the studies.
Results. Seven randomized controlled trials were included. Six studies used non-immersive virtual reality and one used semi-immersive virtual reality. Virtual reality, when applied as a complement to conventional therapy, showed significant improvements in static and dynamic balance, as well as other functional benefits. Discussion. Virtual reality shows consistent benefits for balance after stroke, especially when integrated with conventional therapy. The modality and dosage influence the outcomes, suggesting that a higher degree of immersion and therapeutic intensity may optimize recovery, although methodological limitations and the lack of long-term follow-up remain. Conclusions. Virtual reality, when integrated with conventional therapy, improves balance in older adults after stroke in short intervention periods. Different virtual reality modalities show varying benefits depending on movement complexity, highlighting their feasibility and potential to enhance therapeutic adherence.
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