REVIEW PAPER
Icarus new rising? A narrative review on virtual reality-based motor interventions in older adults
1
Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal
2
SPRINT Sport Physical Activity and Health Research and Innovation Center, Castelo Branco, Portugal
Submission date: 2024-12-31
Acceptance date: 2025-11-19
Online publication date: 2026-02-19
Corresponding author
André Ramalho
Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Av. Pedro Alvares Cabral 12, 6000-084 Castelo Branco
Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Av. Pedro Alvares Cabral 12, 6000-084 Castelo Branco
KEYWORDS
immersive technologyactive ageinggeriatric rehabilitationphysical activitymotor interventionscognitive health
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
This narrative review synthesises the emerging evidence on immersive virtual reality motor interventions in older adults, with a focus on key domains of dynamic ageing: mobility, balance, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social connection. Guided by the SANRA framework, we conducted a structured search (2017–2024) centred on interventions using head-mounted displays. Findings consistently suggest improvements in balance, gait, and muscular strength, though most studies are limited by small sample sizes and short durations. Promising effects are also observed in executive function and mood, yet constrained by methodological heterogeneity and a lack of long-term data. Evidence regarding social outcomes remains limited. Persistent barriers, including limited digital literacy, economic constraints, and the absence of standardised outcome measures, continue to impede widespread implementation. This review maps the current landscape, identifies critical gaps, and calls for larger interdisciplinary studies and inclusive, user-centred design. With these foundations, immersive virtual reality holds promise as a scalable tool for fostering autonomy and vitality in later life.
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