Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) in Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome
As people get older, their eyesight, sense of touch, and balance can weaken. This can lead to falls and a fear of falling, which can stop them from doing daily activities. Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PMDS) is a condition that can happen after falls, making it harder to sit or stand properly and causing a strong fear of falling forward. This study is exploring whether virtual reality (VR) can help people with PMDS. VR has been used successfully before to improve balance in other conditions. Researchers believe it could help with both the physical balance problems and the fear associated with PMDS. They want to find out if using VR is an effective treatment for this condition.
At a glance
What is this study about?
As we get older, particularly over 65, our bodies change. Things like our eyesight, how we sense where our body is in space, and our balance can naturally become a bit weaker. These changes can unfortunately make older people more likely to fall. When someone falls, or even just worries about falling, it can lead to them doing fewer daily activities, which affects their independence and quality of life.
One serious condition that can develop after falls is called Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome, or PMDS. People with PMDS often find it difficult to sit or stand stably, feeling like they're being pushed backwards. They also frequently experience a significant fear of falling forward. This fear isn't just about the physical fall itself; it can become a powerful emotion that affects their movement and confidence.
This study is investigating a new way to help manage PMDS: using virtual reality (VR). VR involves wearing a headset that creates an immersive, computer-generated world. The idea is that gentle exposure to virtual environments could help people with PMDS to improve their balance and overcome their fear of falling in a safe, controlled setting. Similar VR techniques have been successful in helping people with other balance issues, and this research aims to see if it can specifically benefit those with PMDS.
Key takeaways
- The study explores using virtual reality for Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PMDS).
- PMDS causes balance problems and a fear of falling in older adults.
- Virtual reality aims to improve balance and reduce anxiety.
- This is a new approach to help with both physical and emotional aspects of PMDS.
- Participation would involve virtual reality sessions and assessments.
- The goal is to see if VR is an effective treatment for PMDS.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, participants must have been diagnosed with Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PMDS). They should be able to stand on their own without needing help from another person or a special device. They will also need to score above 13 on a short questionnaire about their fear of falling and score less than 26cm on a test that measures how far they can reach forward.
Participants also need to have a good level of thinking and memory, shown by scoring 20 or more on a simple test called the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). This is important because they will be interacting with virtual reality.
Some people won't be able to join the study. This includes those with conditions that might make using virtual reality difficult or unsafe, such as certain brain disorders, Parkinson's disease, or if they experience hallucinations. People who get very sick or dizzy from virtual reality (sometimes called 'cybersickness') also won't be able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Have I been diagnosed with Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PMDS)?
- Can I stand up on my own without needing help from another person or a walking aid?
- Do I ever feel a strong fear of falling in situations like walking or reaching?
- Do I have a good level of thinking and memory, without serious confusion?
- Am I generally okay with technology and new experiences?
What does participation involve?
The detailed plan for participating in this study isn't fully described, but based on the type of trial, it would involve sessions where you would use virtual reality equipment. These sessions would likely be designed to help improve your balance and reduce your fear of falling. You would likely have assessments before starting, during the treatment period, and after completing the virtual reality sessions to measure your progress. The total duration of your involvement isn't specified, but similar studies often involve multiple sessions over several weeks or months. There is no mention of medication in this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hôpital Nord Franche-ComtéVerified postcodeTrévenans, France
Common questions
What is Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PMDS)?
It's a condition often seen in older people after falls, causing problems with balance, making it hard to sit or stand, and leading to a strong fear of falling.
What is virtual reality (VR)?
VR involves wearing a special headset that creates a computer-generated, immersive world, making you feel like you are somewhere else.
Will I get dizzy using virtual reality?
Some people can feel dizzy or nauseous (cybersickness) with VR. The study will try to avoid this, and if you experience it, you would likely be excluded.
How long will the study last?
The exact length isn't stated, but virtual reality studies often involve multiple sessions over several weeks or months.
Will I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study focuses on virtual reality therapy and does not involve taking any new medications.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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