In 2000, Rose, et. al., conducted the study which aimed to assess the short-term efficacy of a biofeedback-based, computerized intervention that applied the principles of the ecological theory of perception and control of bodily orientation in rehabilitating older adults with a history of falling. A total of forty-five older adults (mean age = 78.5 years) with a history of falls were randomly assigned to either a control group (n = 21) or an intervention group (n = 24). A mixed factorial design with a 2 x 2 (Group x Time) structure was employed, incorporating repeated measures on the second factor. The study took place in a motor control research laboratory at a university.

Multiple dimensions of balance impairments, including dynamic postural control and sensory organization, were assessed using the 100% Limits of Stability Test and Sensory Organization Test before and after an 8-week balance intervention. Functional limitations in balance and mobility were evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale and Timed Up and Go test.

The intervention group exhibited significant improvements in dynamic balance (p < .03) and sensory integration capabilities compared to the control group. Significant enhancements were observed in the two clinical measures of balance and mobility for the intervention group before and after the 8-week intervention. The biofeedback-based intervention led to significant improvements in the control of bodily orientation, as measured by the 100% Limits of Stability Test and Sensory Organization Test. The intervention group demonstrated notable enhancements in functional performance, suggesting that interventions focusing on individual, task, and environmental constraints can effectively improve daily activities requiring postural control. The results highlight the efficacy of theory-driven rehabilitation programs in concurrently manipulating various factors to enhance the control of bodily orientation in both static and dynamic action environments for older adults with a previous history of falls.

Rehabilitation programs based on theoretical principles that concurrently manipulate individual, task, and environmental constraints can effectively enhance the control of bodily orientation in both static and dynamic action environments among older adults with a previous history of falls. Moreover, the observed improvements in functional performance within the intervention group suggest that interventions emphasizing task-specific practice are not the sole method for enhancing an older adult’s ability to perform daily activities requiring postural control.

Reference: Rose, D. J., & Clark, S. (2000). Can the control of bodily orientation be significantly improved in a group of older adults with a history of falls?. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 48(3), 275-282.