Older adult views on vibrotactile balance training (Foster et al., 2025)

Objectives: Sensory augmentation or “neurofeedback” devices have been used in balance rehabilitation to provide additional sensory information to complement natural sensory inputs and enhance sensory reweighting. The VertiGuard RT vibrotactile neurofeedback balance training system records body sway (direction, amplitude, and acceleration) via a wearable sensor and provides feedback to the wearer in real time via vibrotactile sensory feedback. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and usability of VertiGuard RT vibrotactile neurofeedback balance training in older adults with hearing loss and describe the participants’ overall perspectives of the device and training.

Design: A mixed-methods design was used, including qualitative semistructured interviews analyzed using thematic analysis and the System Usability Scale for quantitative analysis.

Study Sample: A subset of participants from a larger trial of the VertiGuard RT device (N = 14) of older adults with mild-to-profound hearing loss was recruited.

Results: Participants found the VertiGuard RT training feasible; however, usability varied, with a number of challenges, including technical issues, challenge level of the exercises, and degree of feedback.

Conclusion: This study provides suggestions for improving future iterations of the VertiGuard RT system and the design of technology-enhanced balance training systems for older adults.

Supplemental Material S1. Interview guide.

Foster, J. I., Timmer, B. H. B., Williams, K. L., & Brauer, S. G. (2025). Perspectives of older adults with hearing loss on vibrotactile neurofeedback balance training. American Journal of Audiology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1044/2025_AJA-25-00006