The Effect of Virtual Reality on Executive Function in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Aging & Mental Health
Yu, D., Li, X., et al. (2023).
Aging & Mental Health, 27(4), 663-673.
This systematic review with meta-analysis investigates the effects of virtual reality (VR) interventions on executive function (EF) in older adults, aged 65 years and up, with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
No funding received
January 1, 2010 to November 30, 2020
Randomized controlled trials
14
<div>VR-based cognitive interventions may improve executive function (EF) deficits in older adults with MCI. While VR interventions did not significantly improve working memory and inhibition control, statistically significant improvements were noted for:</div>
<ul>
<li>global EF skills (<em>P<</em>0.01);</li>
<li>cognitive flexibility (MD=−42.48; <em>P</em>=0.05);</li>
<li>global cognitive function (SMD=0.63; <em>P</em>=0.03);</li>
<li>attention (MD=−12.31; <em>P</em>=0.05); and</li>
<li>short-term memory (MD=0.64; <em>P</em>=0.001).</li>
</ul>
<div>Subgroup analysis of VR types found that semi-immersive VR resulted in significantly improved cognitive flexibility (<em>P</em><0.01). Non-immersive VR showed statistically insignificant improvements in cognitive flexibility, global cognitive function, and short-term memory. Three studies demonstrated large, positive effects for VR interventions incorporating cognitive and physical training. Due to limited research, meta-analysis could not be used to determine the effect of cognitive-only training and combined cognitive and physical training.<br><br>Limitations of this review include small sample sizes within studies and high dropout rates (i.e., >15%) in three of the included studies. Additional research investigating VR-based cognitive treatment is needed.</div>
