Exploring the Psychological Nexus of Virtual and Augmented Reality on Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Rapid Review

Abstract

With the global population of older adults projected to double to 2.1 billion by 2050, it becomes crucial to promote healthy aging to alleviate the associated disease burden. In this context, technology, particularly virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), has garnered attention for its potential to augment physical activity in older adults. These immersive technologies offer interactive and enjoyable exercise experiences, making physical activity more appealing. However, the effectiveness of these interventions is not solely attributed to technology itself but is deeply intertwined with psychological processes. This rapid review examines the effectiveness of VR and AR interventions in enhancing physical exercise among healthy older adults while exploring the role of psychological variables, including mood, self-efficacy, and motivation. The results of the study show that technology-enhanced physical activity interventions hold great promise but call attention to the need for a comprehensive understanding of psychological dynamics that will pave the way for more tailored and effective interventions. Future research endeavors should aim to bridge these gaps in knowledge to optimize the impact of technology on healthy aging.

Age Unplugged: A Brief Narrative Review on the Intersection of Digital Tools, Sedentary and Physical Activity Behaviors in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

“…These XR modalities not only enhance the exercise experience, but also meet the demand for diverse and engaging PA. They promise to improve older adults' self-efficacy, motivation and mood, thus promoting safer exercise behavior [79]. Nevertheless, research on the influence of these psychological and motivational factors on PA participation in older adults is nascent, highlighting the need for further investigation into the symbiotic relationship between technological advances and geriatric health [77,79].…”

“…VR technologies, such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, are redefining the exercise paradigm for older adults by creating immersive environments that support a variety of PA, from yoga to cycling [69]. These platforms use head-mounted displays and motion tracking to offer a personalized and motivating movement experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of PA [79,80]. VR exergames, which combine PA with entertainment, have been shown to be effective in maintaining user engagement and minimizing dropout rates, highlighting the ability of VR to make exercise more appealing to older people [81][82][83].…”