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Immersive Virtual Reality to Promote Mental Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Sunkanmi Folorunsho1, Olabisi Lawal2, Comfort Olamide3
1Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, USA.
Objectives:
This systematic review examined the use of immersive virtual reality (IVR) to support multidimensional mental health among older adults.
Methods:
Seven databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between January 2020 and March 2025, with forward and backward citation tracking completed in April 2025 (PROSPERO ID: CRD42025644394). Eligible studies involved adults aged 60 years and older, used fully immersive IVR via head-mounted displays, and assessed mental health outcomes. Ten studies met inclusion criteria, spanning randomized, quasi-experimental, pre - post, and mixed-methods designs across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Results:
Eight of the 10 studies reported improvements in mental health. Virtual nature and guided meditation were most strongly associated with reductions in depression and anxiety, while reminiscence-based IVR improved positive affect and life satisfaction. Controlled studies showed stronger correlation than uncontrolled designs. Barriers such as discomfort, cybersickness, and low digital literacy were commonly addressed through facilitator support and age-friendly design, with feasibility demonstrated across community and long-term care settings.
Conclusions:
Immersive virtual reality is a promising non-pharmacological approach to supporting mental health and reducing social isolation in older adults.
Clinical Implications:
When appropriately adapted, brief, facilitator-supported IVR sessions may improve mental health outcomes among older adults in community and institutional settings.
