Biofeedback for training balance and mobility in older adults: a systematic review

One-third to one-half of the population over age 65 reports some difficulty with balance or ambulation [1]. Balance and mobility disorders can have serious consequences regarding physical functioning (e.g. leading to fall-related injuries) as well as psycho-social functioning. Beneficial effects of balance and mobility-related task exercise interventions have been demonstrated in older adults [2]. Providing the older adult with additional sensory information on their own motion, i.e. biofeedback information, may enhance training effects. Meta-analyses on the effects of biofeedback-based training have been conducted primarily for stroke rehabilitation [3-5]. The present study reviews whether larger improvements are obtained when providing biofeedback information during balance and mobility-related task training in older adults, compared to regular training without biofeedback.