Sensor-based balance training with motion feedback in people with mild cognitive impairment

Some individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) experience not only cognitive deficits but also a decline in motor function, including postural balance. This pilot study sought to estimate the feasibility, user experience, and effects of a novel sensor-based balance training program. Patients...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of rehabilitation research and development 2016, Vol.53 (6), p.945-958
Main Authors: Schwenk, Michael, Sabbagh, Marwan, Lin, Ivy, Morgan, Pharah, Grewal, Gurtej S, Mohler, Jane, Coon, David W, Najafi, Bijan
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Accidental Falls
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Cognitive Dysfunction - physiopathology
Exercise Therapy
Feedback, Physiological
Female
Gait
Humans
Male
Pilot Projects
Postural Balance
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Summary:Some individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) experience not only cognitive deficits but also a decline in motor function, including postural balance. This pilot study sought to estimate the feasibility, user experience, and effects of a novel sensor-based balance training program. Patients with amnestic MCI (mean age 78.2 yr) were randomized to an intervention group (IG, n = 12) or control group (CG, n = 10). The IG underwent balance training (4 wk, twice a week) that included weight shifting and virtual obstacle crossing. Real-time visual/audio lower-limb motion feedback was provided from wearable sensors. The CG received no training. User experience was measured by a questionnaire. Postintervention effects on balance (center of mass sway during standing with eyes open [EO] and eyes closed), gait (speed, variability), cognition, and fear of falling were measured. Eleven participants (92%) completed the training and expressed fun, safety, and helpfulness of sensor feedback. Sway (EO, p = 0.04) and fear of falling (p = 0.02) were reduced in the IG compared to the CG. Changes in other measures were nonsignificant. Results suggest that the sensor-based training paradigm is well accepted in the target population and beneficial for improving postural control. Future studies should evaluate the added value of the sensor-based training compared to traditional training.
ISSN:0748-7711
1938-1352
DOI:10.1682/JRRD.2015.05.0089