A1 Journal article (refereed)
The Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Cognition in Older Adults : A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials (2024)

Kantola, M., Ilves, O., Honkanen, S., Hakonen, H., Yli-Ikkelä, R., Köyhäjoki, A., Anttila, M.-R., Rintala, A., Korpi, H., Sjögren, T., Karvanen, J., & Aartolahti, E. (2024). The Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Cognition in Older Adults : A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, Ahead of Print. https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2023-0217

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Kantola, Mirjami; Ilves, Outi; Honkanen, Sari; Hakonen, Harto; Yli-Ikkelä, Riku; Köyhäjoki, Anna; Anttila, Marjo-Riitta; Rintala, Aki; Korpi, Hilkka; Sjögren, Tuulikki; et al.

Journal or series: Journal of Aging and Physical Activity

ISSN: 1063-8652

eISSN: 1543-267X

Publication year: 2024

Volume: Ahead of Print

Publisher: Human Kinetics

Publication country: United States

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2023-0217

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/93698

Abstract

The aim of this systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression was to examine the effects of virtual reality–based training on global cognition and executive function compared with conventional training or information-based treatment in older adults, regardless of cognitive level. A systematic literature search was conducted using four databases. A total of 31 randomized controlled trials were identified. Pooled effect sizes were calculated, the risk of bias was assessed, and evidence was graded. The primary analyses showed a small but statistically significant effect of virtual reality–based training compared with control on global cognition (Hedges’ g 0.42, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.68], I 2 = 70.1%, n = 876, 20 randomized controlled trials, low evidence) and executive function (Hedges’ g 0.35, 95% confidence interval [0.06, 0.65], I 2 = 68.4%, n = 810, 16 randomized controlled trials, very low evidence). Meta-regression yielded inconclusive results. Virtual reality–based training may be more effective than control in improving cognition in older adults; however, more high-quality studies are needed.

Keywords: training; ageing; older people; executive functions (psychology)

Free keywords: global cognition; executive function; exercise; aged

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Ministry reporting: Yes

Preliminary JUFO rating: 1