AI-Adaptive AR Training for Balance and Falls Prevention in Older Adults

Falls are a common problem in adults within the age of 55-80 years and can lead to injury and loss of independence. This study is testing a new type of balance training using augmented reality (AR). In this intervention, participants will see virtual objects, such as obstacles, placed in their environment and will practice stepping over or moving around them. The system will adjust the difficulty based on each person's performance. Participants will complete training sessions over several weeks. We will measure changes in balance, walking ability, and confidence before and after the program. The goal is to see if this training can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls in older adults.

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 55 - 80 years * Able to ambulate independently with or without an assistive device * Able to understand and follow instructions unimpeded by significant cognitive barriers (MoCA score must be 24/30 or higher) * Self-reported balance concerns or perceived risk of falls (e.g., reduced balance confidence) * Must be able to provide a list of current medications to the experimenters and the changes in medications during the study * Vision that normal or near normal with/without the use of glasses/lenses * Able to understand and follow study instructions in English Exclusion Criteria: * Engaging in any additional balance or mobility training programs while participating in the study * Diagnosed neurological conditions that substantially impair balance or mobility (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, Traumatic Brain Injury) * Medical conditions that contraindicate moderate physical activity * Vision impairment that cannot be corrected by glasses or lenses