ABSTRACT
Objective:To systematically evaluate the effects of virtual reality (VR) training on balance function for old adults. Methods:The randomized controlled trials between VR training and routine rehabilitation for balance function for old adults were retrieved from databases of CNKI, Wangfang data, CBM, VIP, Web of Science, PubMed, Clinical Science, EMBASE, Science Direct, Medline, Cohrane Library and Google Scholar. The literatures were screened, data were extracted and the risk of bias were assessed, and analysed with RevMan. Results:A total of 20 randomized controlled trials were included. Compared with the routine rehabilitation, VR training promoted recovery in score of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for all the old adults (WMD = 2.33, 95%CI 0.88 to 3.78), those < 75 years old (WMD = 2.59, 95%CI 0.22 to 4.97) and > 75 years old (WMD = 2.69，95%CI 1.82 to 3.57). VR training also promoted recovery in time of Timed "Up & Go" Test (TUGT) for all the old adults (WMD = -0.96, 95%CI -1.65 to -0.28) and those < 75 years old (WMD = -1.06, 95%CI -1.98 to -0.15), but those > 75 years old (WMD = -0.81, 95%CI -1.98 to 0.37). Conclusion:VR training may promote the recovery of balance and walking for old adults.