The application and evaluation of an augmented-reality-based physical and cognitive stimulation programme for older adults

The aim of this paper is to present the results of research analysing the incorporation of virtual or augmented reality into a programme based on physical and cognitive stimulation in older adults and to evaluate its effects following its application. The specific objectives were to verify whether the intervention had a positive effect on the cognitive deterioration of older adults as far as their mobility and fall risk were concerned and whether it was possible to observe any significant differences. A total of 18 people over the age of 65, all of whom were users of a day centre for the elderly, participated in this research. In terms of methodology, the study employed a quasi-experimental approach with two groups and both a pretest and a posttest to analyse the data quantitatively and descriptively. Three scales adapted to a Spanish population were used to measure cognitive deterioration, mobility and fall risk and to evaluate mental disorders in old age. As far as the results are concerned, although no statistically significant data have been found, it has been possible to appreciate slight improvements which suggest that virtual or augmented reality is a tool which can be used to complement physical and cognitive intervention programmes and activities in day centres for the elderly, incorporating aspects of an interactive nature which allow people to exercise and recover basic abilities in their everyday life, particularly in the area of cognition.