Exploring Virtual Reality-Based Reminiscence Therapy on Cognitive and Emotional Well-Being in People with Cognitive Impairments: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND/

objectivesVirtual reality (VR) is increasingly being explored as a non-pharmacological therapy to enhance the well-being of people with cognitive impairment (PwCI). Studies suggest that VR-based interventions improve mood, reduce apathy, and enhance emotional engagement, making VR a valuable tool for cognitive and emotional support. This scoping review synthesizes evidence on VR-based reminiscence therapy (VRRT) for PwCI. It aims to map existing knowledge, highlight implementation challenges, and offer practical, technical design, and evidence-informed recommendations for clinical integration-building on prior reviews that have touched on these aspects, but placing a stronger and more structured emphasis on real-world applicability and translational insights. This review draws extensively on qualitative findings across the included studies to better capture contextual factors, user experiences, facilitator roles, and barriers to usability. Moreover, unlike previous research, we included only studies involving individuals-either directly or via proxies-with an age-related cognitive impairment, formally diagnosed by a qualified authority.

methodsA systematic search based on the PRISMA-ScR guideline identified 310 studies, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. These studies assessed the effectiveness and feasibility of immersive VRRT. Research methodologies included longitudinal (

resultsThe findings highlight VRRT's potential to enhance engagement, emotional well-being, and cognitive function. However, usability challenges and technical limitations persist. While VR offers promising benefits, further research is needed to refine interventions, address personalization barriers, and assess long-term effects.

conclusionsThis review underscores the importance of integrating VRRT into care programs and improving accessibility. Future research should enhance methodological rigor to ensure reliable outcomes and maximize VR's impact on PwCI well-being. The scoping review protocol is registered a priori with the Center for Open Science (OSF) (registration type: OSF Preregistration, data registered: 15 November 2024, associated project: osf.io/r7jha, identifier: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/R7JHA).