Effects of biofeedback on secondary-task response time and postural stability in older adults

Real-time single- and multiple-axis vibrotactile feedback of trunk motion has been shown to significantly decrease mean trunk tilt and decrease time spent outside a no vibrotactile feedback zone (dead zone) in older adults within a laboratory setting. This study aimed to determine if these improvements can translate into everyday use, during which other tasks may simultaneously demand attention. A dual-task paradigm was used in which 10 community-dwelling older adults were asked to perform standing trials in the presence of a secondary task (verbal or push-button), vibrotactile feedback, or both (dual-task). Results show that subjects significantly increased the percentage of time inside the dead zone when feedback was provided compared to when it was not during both verbal (+13.6%) and push-button (+10.1%) secondary tasks. Providing feedback also decreased RMS of trunk tilt during both secondary tasks (verbal: −0.129°; push-button: −0.138°). However, response times for secondary tasks increased (verbal: +119 ms; push-button: +110 ms) when feedback was provided. These results suggest that while vibrotactile feedback does increase attentional load in older adults, it can still be used effectively to improve postural metrics in high cognitive load situations.

► We study the effects of biofeedback on secondary task performance during standing. ► Older adults use torso-based vibrotactile feedback to minimize their body sway. ► Biofeedback improves postural metrics even while a secondary task is performed. ► Biofeedback decreases performance on secondary task.