Cycle more with virtual reality: a proof of concept study in an institutionalised able-bodied geriatric population

Abstract Background/Objectives Physical activity (PA) has significant benefits for older adults. However, the recommended PA is rarely achieved in nursing homes. In this proof of concept study, we assessed whether virtual reality (VR) could help to increase spontaneous PA during a stationary cycling...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Age and ageing 2021-07, Vol.50 (4), p.1422-1425
Main Authors: Loggia, Gilles, Gauthier, Antoine, Lemiere, Fabrice, Drigny, Joffrey, Desvergee, Antoine, Leconte, Pascale, Ruet, Alexis
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bicycles
Cognitive ability
Cognitive impairment
Computer applications
Human health and pathology
Life Sciences
Nursing homes
Older people
Physical activity
Virtual reality
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Summary:Abstract Background/Objectives Physical activity (PA) has significant benefits for older adults. However, the recommended PA is rarely achieved in nursing homes. In this proof of concept study, we assessed whether virtual reality (VR) could help to increase spontaneous PA during a stationary cycling session. Design Prospective crossover proof of concept study. Setting Nursinghome. Participants Twelve participants (10 men) aged 63–88, able-bodied but with moderate cognitive impairment. Intervention TWO stationary cycling sessions with and withoutVR. Measurements Cycling distance, pedalling duration, average speed, mean pedalling cadence and the modified Borg rating of perceived exertion scale. Results Cycling distance and duration were significantly higher in the VR condition. Most participants would rather repeat cycling sessions with VR than without. Conclusion The use of VR seems feasible to help achieve PA recommendations for able-bodied people living in nursing homes, even with moderate cognitive impairments.
ISSN:0002-0729
1468-2834
DOI:10.1093/ageing/afab040