Augmented reality interventions in older adults: A scoping review

Background: Augmented reality (AR) has gained increasing attention in recent years due to rapid technological innovation and advances in virtual reality. We plan to conduct a systematic review to examine the current and emerging use of AR technologies in older adults and to assess how these applications may improve care and functional outcomes. Methods: We will systematically search PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect from database inception through June 2025 for peer-reviewed articles. We will include primary studies that use AR-based interventions in older adults (aged ≥65 years) and report empirical data analyses. Titles, abstracts, and full texts will be screened using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Planned analyses: We will synthesize findings across included studies and categorize applications of AR for older adults into thematic domains, including foundational usability and feasibility, exercise and movement, cognitive functioning, and education or activities of daily living (ADL) support. Expected contribution: This review aims to characterize the scope, feasibility, and effectiveness of AR-enhanced care for older adults. We anticipate identifying both areas of promise—such as gait and balance training, exercise, ADL support, and educational applications—and common challenges related to physical comfort, usability, and technical complexity of AR devices. Findings will inform future development and implementation of accessible, user-centered AR technologies tailored to the needs of aging populations.