JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Virtual reality (VR) technology is increasingly applied in aging-related research. While existing bibliometric studies have focused on specific applications, such as older adults' acceptance of VR and its use in cognitive rehabilitation, no comprehensive mapping of the global research landscape on VR for older populations has been conducted. This study fills this gap by providing a holistic bibliometric and thematic analysis of VR applications in older adults, mapping research trends, intellectual structures, and emerging frontiers.

Objective:

This study aims to explore the current applications, potential benefits, and future directions of virtual reality technology for older adults, based on literature published between 2015 and April 30, 2025.

Methods:

This study employed bibliometric methods to systematically examine the current status and developmental trends in VR research for older adults. We searched the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) for research articles and reviews published in English. A total of 1,609 publications were included in the final analysis. Using CiteSpace and VOSviewer, we conducted co-authorship network analysis, keyword clustering, and burst detection to map research hotspots, academic collaboration patterns, and emerging trends in the field.

Results:

Analysis of 1,609 publications revealed a steady growth in the application of VR technology for older adults. The predominant research areas included meta analysis, rehabilitation, dementia, and gait. The United States and China were the two most productive countries, with Tel Aviv University emerging as the leading institution. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience and Applied Sciences Basel were the most prolific journals, each publishing 40 papers. The most cited article evaluated the effects of VR-based physical and cognitive training on executive function and dual-task gait performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Emerging research themes include artificial intelligence(AI), association, and depression.

Conclusions:

VR research for older adults is rapidly expanding and globally collaborative. While applications span multiple geriatric domains, future efforts should prioritize mental health, disease integration, and AI-enhanced VR technologies.