The effectiveness of immersive virtual reality on the psychology of older adults: A systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

IF 4.1 2区医学 Q1 PSYCHIATRY

General hospital psychiatry Pub Date : 2025-02-28 DOI:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2025.02.024

Zhilan Ke , Meng Wei , Fen Yang , Yufei Qiu , Xinhong Zhu , Xiaolian Gao , Jing Zhou , Guiyuan Qiao

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

The increasing prevalence of psychological issues among older adults is a significant public health concern. Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) is being investigated and tested as a potential intervention tool for addressing these issues.

Objective

This review aims to assess the effectiveness of IVR devices in enhancing the psychological well-being of older adults.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases up to January 24, 2024. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials, version 2, was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies and determine the levels of evidence for the outcomes. Results are reported as Standardized Mean Differences (SMDs) with 95 % Confidence Intervals (CIs).

Results

The primary outcomes of this review were depression and anxiety, with psychological well-being as the secondary outcome. Among the 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included (n = 15), for overall methodological quality, 1 study showed high risk, 6 studies showed some concerns and 8 studies showed low risk. A total of 802 older adults participated across the studies. Compared with control groups, IVR intervention was more effective in reducing depression (SMD -0.608, 95 % CI -0.900 ∼ −0.315, P < 0.001), anxiety (SMD -0.708, 95 % CI -1.119 ∼ −0.297, P = 0.001), and more effective in improving psychological well-being (SMD 0.641, 95 % CI 0.068–1.214, P = 0.028).

Conclusions

IVR has the potential to improve the psychological health of older adults and may be widely applicable in promoting successful aging.

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来源期刊

General hospital psychiatry 医学-精神病学

CiteScore

9.60

自引率

2.90%

发文量

125

审稿时长

20 days

期刊介绍： General Hospital Psychiatry explores the many linkages among psychiatry, medicine, and primary care. In emphasizing a biopsychosocial approach to illness and health, the journal provides a forum for professionals with clinical, academic, and research interests in psychiatry''s role in the mainstream of medicine.