A Review of Technology-Enhanced Recreational Therapy in Mild Cognitive Impairment

TL;DR

This review explores how technology-enhanced recreational therapy can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment and dementia by improving cognition and social engagement.

Contribution

The study maps current evidence on TERT interventions, identifying technologies, goals, outcomes, and gaps in research for MCI and dementia.

Findings

Immersive and mixed VR are the most common TERT technologies used for cognitive and social outcomes.

Most studies showed positive cognitive outcomes, but limitations like small samples and short interventions remain.

Barriers such as usability issues and equipment costs hinder widespread adoption of TERT.

Abstract

As the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia continues to rise, there is growing interest in non-pharmacological interventions that promote cognitive and psychosocial well-being. Technology-enhanced recreational therapy (TERT) represents a promising approach that aligns with recreational therapy’s emphasis on activity-based cognitive rehabilitation. However, the scope, effectiveness, and limitations of TERT in supporting individuals with MCI and dementia remain insufficiently understood. This scoping review mapped current evidence on TERT interventions for older adults with MCI and dementia, identifying technologies, therapeutic goals, outcomes, and methodological gaps. According to Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA guidelines, five databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies (2000–2024). Forty-three studies met inclusion criteria and were charted by technology type, population, goals, outcomes, and design. Immersive and mixed/unspecified VR dominated (n = 36), with few studies using mobile apps (n = 2), robots (n = 1), or multimodel platforms (n = 1). Populations included MCI (n = 11), dementia (n = 8), and broader aging groups (n = 16), often in long-term care (n = 16). Therapeutic aims clustered around cognition (n = 15), affect (n = 13), social engagement (n = 11), and reminiscence (n = 5). Most studies (31/43) reported positive outcomes in cognition; mixed findings (n = 12) reflected small samples and short interventions. Study designs included RCTs (n = 11) and reviews (n = 11), though many were preliminary. Common barriers included usability, cybersickness, and equipment costs. Evidence indicates TERT can improve cognitive stimulation, affect, and social connection for older adults with cognitive decline. However, methodological limitations and inequities in access restrict implementation. Future work should pursue rigorous, longitudinal trials and culturally responsive designs to ensure equitable translation into recreational therapy practice.