Skip to main content
Article
The effects of a home-based virtual reality rehabilitation program on balance among individuals with Parkinson's disease
Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics (2013)
  • Jeffrey D Holmes, The University of Western Ontario
  • Michelle L Gu, The University of Western Ontario
  • Andrew M. Johnson, The University of Western Ontario
  • Mary E Jenkins, The University of Western Ontario
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Recently, the Nintendo Wii has emerged as an innovation in rehabilitation. Although research findings to date have contributed to our understanding of the effects of implementing the Wii as a rehabilitation tool, evidence supporting the Wii for improving symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains limited. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week home-based exercise program designed around the Wii, in improving balance, balance confidence, and maintaining exercise adherence among individuals with PD. Methods: Fifteen participants were recruited to engage in 30 minutes of Wii activity 3×/week for 12 weeks. Results: Balance and balance confidence improved from baseline to midintervention, but reverted back to near baseline values at postintervention. Exercise adherence was maintained equally throughout the study. Conclusions: The Nintendo Wii has potential to be an effective treatment strategy for improving balance, balance confidence, and fostering programmatic adherence among individuals with PD. Read More: http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/02703181.2013.814743
Publication Date
2013
Citation Information
Jeffrey D Holmes, Michelle L Gu, Andrew M. Johnson and Mary E Jenkins. "The effects of a home-based virtual reality rehabilitation program on balance among individuals with Parkinson's disease" Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics Vol. 31 Iss. 3 (2013)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/andrewjohnson/41/