Effect of wearable sensor-based Otago Exercise Program biofeedback in older adults with moderate to high risk of falling

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Falls remain a major public health issue. The ageing process is characterized by a progressive decrease in muscle strength, reaction time, postural control and changes in sensory systems. Wearable sensor-based biofeedback systems used in physiotherapy, particularly incorporated in exercise programs, are promising strategies to enhance the learning of strength and balance exercises and improve self-efficacy. Objectives To evaluate the effect of the wearable sensor-based Otago Exercise Program (OTAGO) biofeedback in older adults with moderate to high risk. Methodology Sixty participants (84.35 years) were distributed to the experimental group (26) and a control group (34). The EG underwent the OTAGO incorporated in a technological system using pressure and inertial sensors and biofeedback in real-time, administered by a physiotherapist for 5 weeks, with a frequency of 2 times a week. The CG kept doing their regular activities. Outcome measures included handgrip strength (HG), Time Up and Go (TUG), 30 seconds Sit to Stand, 10 meters Walking Speed (10m WS), 4 Stage Balance Test “Modified”, Step test and Questionnaire of Self-efficacy for exercise. Results At baseline, significant differences were observed regarding the 10m WS (p < 0.001), TUG (p = 0.036) and HG (p = 0.001). Relatively to 4SBTM, in post-intervention was seen significant difference (p = 0.008) and in EG there was also substantial results (p < 0.001). The same happens in SEE (p = 0.013 and p = 0.020, respectively). A significant increase was found in EG so that the post-intervention 10m WS was statistically higher compared with the CG (EG: 0.42±0.29; CG: 1.10±0.51; p = 0.003). In the CG worst results were observed in some of the functional tests. Conclusion Biofeedback in real-time facilitates the self-learning of the exercise program, and it is a useful tool for training strength, balance and self-efficacy for exercise, contributing to reducing the risk of falls.