@article{ref1,
title="Can older adults' balance and mobility improve with visual attention training?",
journal="European journal of applied physiology",
year="2019",
author="Althomali, Mohammed M. and Vallis, Lori Ann and Leat, Susan J.",
volume="119",
number="7",
pages="1649-1661",
abstract="PURPOSE: We hypothesize that training older adults with a structured visual attention task will result in improved balance and mobility, potentially reducing their risk for falls. <br><br>METHODS: Healthy older adults aged 70 + took part in the study (mean age 80.3 ± 6 years). In this randomised control trial (NCT02030743), 15 participants were randomly assigned to a visual attention training group and 15 to a control group. Visual attention training was undertaken twice a week (45 min sessions) for 3 weeks (= six sessions) using versions of a selective attention useful field of view test and attended field of view test. The outcome measures were postural sway using a force plate, the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test, the One-Legged Stance test, the 5 Meter Walking test, the Sit to Stand test, the Timed Up and Go test without and with a concurrent cognitive task. <br><br>RESULTS: There was a greater improvement in visual attention after training in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < 0.01). However, a mixed ANOVA (2× groups, 2× visit) showed no main effect of visit or group or any interaction for any of the force plate parameters. T tests of the changes over time between the intervention group and the control groups for the other balance and mobility assessment tools showed no improvement after the visual attention training. <br><br>CONCLUSION: It was found that there was no improvement in either mobility or balance after the visual attention training and no difference between the intervention and the control groups.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1439-6319",
doi="10.1007/s00421-019-04153-2",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00421-019-04153-2"
}