Abstract
BackgroundRecently, there is an increased number of studies that use 360° virtual reality (VR) video for medical and rehabilitative purposes. However, the 360° VR video experience for older adults has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to examine the validity of an 360° VR video-based immersive cycling training system (360° VRCTS) for older adults and to provide preliminary evidence of efficacy.MethodsWe developed a new virtual reality training system using an immersive environment 360° VRCTS. Five healthy older adults (2 males and 3 females) participated in this study. The system was tested in a single training session (biking for 20 min while viewing a 360° VR video scene through a large curved screen) to identify its strengths and weakness. The usability and acceptability of our system were measured using the system usability scale (SUS) and the simulator sickness questionnaire (SSQ).ResultsAll participants successfully completed the session without any discomfort. The average score for the SUS was 94.60 (range, 90–100), indicating high usability of the technology. The average score for the SSQ was 2.24 (standard deviation = 2.05), indicating that the system is well tolerated and has few side effects.ConclusionsThe 360° VRCTS may be a useful indoor training system for older adults due to its easy manipulation, high usability, and limited cybersickness.Trial registration numberClinical Research Information Services (CRiS), KCT0003555, Registered February 25, 2019, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/index/index.do.
Highlights
There is an increased number of studies that use 360° virtual reality (VR) video for medical and rehabilitative purposes
This study is based on the development of a method that provides immersive content for cycle training based on 360° VR video, and attempts to increase interest to motivate older adults to perform indoor exercise
The study consisted of only five older adults (3 male, 2 female), the results were very encouraging
Summary
There is an increased number of studies that use 360° virtual reality (VR) video for medical and rehabilitative purposes. The limited financial support for medical expenses of older adults has resulted in a paradigm shift from existing policies focused on the treatment of diseases to policies for disease prevention by promoting exercise and physical activity [1, 2]. Outdoor activities provide physical, mental, and social advantages for individuals of all ages [4]. Currently, it difficult to perform outdoor activities due to the lack of an adequate environment for walking or cycling resulting from is rapid urbanization. It difficult to perform outdoor activities due to the lack of an adequate environment for walking or cycling resulting from is rapid urbanization Air pollution, such as fine dust, add to the limitations of outdoor activities [5, 6]. Despite the advantages of the outdoor environment, an alternative is needed that would allow older adults to exercise indoors
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
