Effect of Immersive Virtual Reality-Based Training on Spatial Navigation, Global Cognition and Mobility of Elderly People

• Elizabete de Oliveira Barbosa UNIMONTES
• Laura Ximena Plata Olarte UNIMONTES
• Maria Clara Costa e Souza
• Camila Cristina Fonseca Bicalho UEMG
• Camila Fernanda Costa e Cunha Moraes Brandão UEMG
• Renato Sobral Monteiro Junior UNIMONTES

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/sbgames_estendido.2025.10027

Abstract

Introduction: Aging is associated with a decline in motor activities and a gradual loss of cognitive functions. Virtual reality is known to be a potential resource for improving cognition and motor control. Objective: To verify the effect of a training program with Immersive Virtual Reality on spatial navigation, global cognition and mobility in the elderly. Methodology or Steps: Eleven elderly individuals (60 years of age or older), of both sexes, were recruited. Participants underwent the following tests: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to assess global cognition; Floor Maze Test (FMT), to assess spatial navigation; and the 2.44 m stand-up test (Lev-ir), which assesses physical mobility (agility and dynamic balance). The dual-task program with immersive virtual reality (DTRV) consisted of multimodal physical exercises, in which the participant used a virtual reality simulator (Oculus Quest 2TM, Meta, California, USA), through the software that provides virtual games (Beat saber; Dance central; Gym class basketball VR; Hand physics Lab; OhShape; The Thrill of the Fight). The program lasted 12 sessions (2 times/week). The pre- and post-training comparison was performed using the dependent t-test and Wilcoxon tests. Expected Results: The analyses revealed a significant difference in spatial navigation in the time of repetition of the maze without prior planning (p<0.01), showing that the elderly improved the performance of episodic memory related to spatial navigation. No other changes were identified. Conclusion: It is concluded that the training program with immersive virtual reality possibly improves spatial navigation in the elderly, regardless of global cognition and mobility.

Keywords: Elderly person, Physical exercise, Virtual reality, Global cognition, Spatial navigation

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