Multicomponent Exercise and Virtual Reality for Older Adults

Effects of a Combined Multicomponent Exercise and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Program on Functionality, Balance, Cognition, and Occupational Participation in Older Adults: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study With a Control Group

Population aging is associated with an increased risk of frailty, falls, and loss of autonomy. This pilot study aims to evaluate the effects of a program that combines multicomponent exercise and non-immersive virtual reality (MCE+VR-NI), compared with virtual reality alone (VR-NI) and usual treatment. The primary objective is to determine the program's impact on physical function, balance, cognition, and occupational participation in community-dwelling adults aged over 65 years.

This is a mixed-methods pilot study consisting of a two-arm randomized controlled trial and a non-randomized parallel cohort for the control group. Participants will be allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio to the intervention or control groups. The intervention period will last 8 weeks. Quantitative outcomes (SPPB, FRAIL Scale, TUG, MoCA, COPM, WHODAS 2.0) will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention. In addition, qualitative interviews will be conducted to explore participants' subjective experiences and motivation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants must be aged 65 years or older.
• A score of ≥23 points on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score
• Functional independence or minimal dependence in activities of daily living (A score of >90 on the Barthel Index).
• Participants must be able to understand instructions and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Conditions that prevent walking or safe participation in a group intervention.