SHBC1107

L.H.TEE¹, W.W.SEAH¹, C. CHIA¹, E.C.HO¹, E.C. NEOH¹, P. LIM², L.S.WONG², S.P. SHORN²

Tan Tock Seng Hospital¹, Nanyang Polytechnic²

The m-VRT is a mobile app designed to enable patients with uncompensated vestibular hypofunction to self-manage their home exercise program based on set progression parameters in a guided and remotely monitored manner. This study aims to (1) evaluate the experience and acceptance of healthy older adults towards the use of m-VRT and (2) gather their feedback and suggestions.

Prospective cross-sectional study. Sixteen healthy older adults with no prior experience with vestibular rehabilitation were recruited.

All subjects agreed that the m-VRT is an innovative idea and is easy to learn, navigate, and use. 93% of subjects reported confidence in using the application; would actually like to use it; and would recommend its use other patients.

Discussion

This study has demonstrated the feasibility and usability of m-VRT in healthy older adults. The research team is currently evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of the m-VRT application in our older patients with uncompensated vestibular hypofunction. The m-VRT can substitute face to face therapy sessions and can potentially facilitate patients early return to mobility and daily functional activities in a cost-efficient way. Remote monitoring of these patients can enable healthcare resources to be diverted towards better and timely management of patients with more complex vestibular conditions.

Conclusions 

The feasibility and usability of the m-VRT can provide an alternative therapeutic approach to meet the needs of patients with uncompensated vestibular hypofunction, within the context of an ageing populations and the need to develop tele health.