This review adheres to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews. Inclusion criteria encompass: (i) articles published in English; (ii) studies without temporal or spatial restrictions; (iii) interventions employing VR-iADL and motor applications; (iv) clinical trials and pilot studies; (v) studies involving healthy older adults with MCI or dementia; (vi) immersive and non-immersive systems; and (vii) studies both with and without a control group.

Exclusion criteria include: (i) theoretical or descriptive studies; (ii) non-peer-reviewed articles and preprints; (iii) studies not employing VR; (iv) applications that do not simulate an iADL; (v) interventions solely cognitive in nature; (vi) literature reviews; (vii) interventions for disorders other than those specified; (viii) diagnostic or screening investigations; and (ix) interventions without a pretest and posttest.

Relevant articles were identified in Pubmed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Apa PsycNet, and the Web of Science databases, from their inception until January 2023. The search terms included keywords relating to virtual reality (e.g., “virtual,” “computer”), cognitive-motor interventions (e.g., “cognitive,” “motor,” “memory,” “executive,” “rehabilitation,” “training,” “stimulation”), iADL (e.g., “daily,” “ADL,” “iADL,” “store,” “shopping,” “supermarket,” “cook,” “cooking,” “kitchen”), and cognitive disorders [e.g., “mild,” “Alzheimer,” “dementia,” NOT (“stroke,” “brain injury,” “TBI”)].

Search terms were tailored to each database. The titles and abstracts of articles in each database were screened independently by two authors (JB and GP-N) in line with the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Duplicate studies were removed, and additional studies cited in the identified articles were included. The selected articles were then stored, organized, and assessed using the Mendeley bibliographic manager v1.19.8 (Mendeley Ltd., Elsevier, Netherlands).

Cognitive-motor interventions have demonstrated potential as an effective method to boost cognitive functions and alleviate frailty. Evidence indicates that these interventions can enhance physical performance, brain functionality (as determined by resting functional magnetic resonance imaging), and cognitive capacities (Raichlen et al., 2020; Yue et al., 2020). The use of VR for such interventions has been successfully demonstrated in both healthy elderly individuals and those suffering from dementia (Yi et al., 2022).

A recent review highlighted that VR cognitive training can exert moderate to large effects on global cognition, attention, memory, and motor performance in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), with additional benefits for executive function seen in people with dementia (Papaioannou et al., 2022). The VR-integrated ADL motor studies explored in our review have successfully motivated individuals to utilize learned skills in real life, with encouraging knowledge transfer outcomes (McDaniel et al., 2014). Several studies (Healy et al., 2005; Dahlin et al., 2008) propose that transferable skills are only developed through practice, suggesting that other non-iADL applications may not yield the same benefits. More specifically, evidence suggests that practicing an activity can facilitate the transfer of coordination skills in dual tasks, as demonstrated in the study by Schubert et al. (2017). The review conducted by Joubert and Chainay (2018) indicated a slight superiority for combined physical and cognitive training over training conducted separately. However, separate training also influences different cognitive functions, warranting further research. The links between cognitive and motor processes are not new, and they likely share a similar evolutionary history (Leisman et al., 2016).

The study carried out by Liao et al. (2020) reported that the stimulation of dual tasks (physical and cognitive) simulating ADL in virtual environments can impact various cognitive functions, notably executive functions (EF) and memory (Lauenroth et al., 2016). In previous work, the authors (Liao et al., 2019) created a VR application simulating iADL-m, which aided in training divided attention and cognitive flexibility (aspects of EF), targeting individuals to achieve between 50 and 75% of their maximum heart rate. Concurrently, the results of the study of Mrakic-Sposta et al. (2018) revealed improvements in attention, EF, and memory in patients with MCI. Similar improvements in EF and walking speed were also observed in Kwan et al. (2021)’s study, consistent with a recent review (Papaioannou et al., 2022). These applications provide real-time feedback, leading to long-term benefits, such as the transfer of knowledge to the real world (Ross et al., 2016).

McDaniel et al. (2014) combined virtual food preparation, table setting, and flexibility exercises, showing benefits for prospective memory. This involves spontaneous recovery and care processes that enable defining the actions to be carried out based on the place and situation. High levels of physical activity correlated directly with the proper functioning of EF, suggesting a potential palliative measure (Galle et al., 2022). The study of Galle et al. (2023) showed that those who increased their physical activity by more than 30% displayed improvements in gait speed, aerobic capacity, EF, and global cognition compared to those who did not. Significant enhancements in spatial cognition were also reported, implying that orientation practice could potentially forestall the cognitive decline of the elderly. Applications simulating a virtual city and requiring street crossings could be beneficial to users (Waddington and Heisz, 2023).

According to the study of Doniger et al. (2018), dual processing speed (mobility) training offered protection against dementia. As demonstrated in the longitudinal study carried out by Edwards et al. (2016) cognitive-motor training reduced the experimental group’s chances of developing dementia after 10 years by 33%. Although this study primarily aimed to improve cognitive function with simultaneous walking being an incidental action inherent to the shopping task, the results indicated that cognitive training benefited physical performance (PE) while physical training benefited memory. The study of Kwan et al. (2021) reported improvements in cognitive function as a result of virtual cognitive-motor training, which can be attributed to neural plasticity. This effect could be due to the super additive synergistic effects created by the multitasking requirement of simultaneous physical and cognitive exercises. This aligns with the findings of Herold et al. (2018), who suggested that motor training incorporating a cognitive task has the highest ecological validity. Interventions that encourage significant physical exercise, offer variable levels of difficulty, and maintain a task-focused approach have shown to be more effective in adapting to related tasks (Stanmore et al., 2019; Wollesen et al., 2020). This suggests that a comprehensive, multifaceted approach can be more beneficial for cognitive health and physical function.

Numerous research studies have underscored the advantages of physical exercise as a complementary approach in cognitive rehabilitation. Liao et al. (2020) reported that such exercise promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, enhancing blood flow and exerting beneficial metabolic effects. Park et al. (2020) further emphasized this in a virtual cognitive-motor intervention study, indicating that physical exercise stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thereby increasing cortisol levels and enhancing learning and memory (Luger et al., 1987). Doniger et al. (2018) observed that groups engaged in cognitive-motor training demonstrated increased cerebral blood flow in the prefrontal, middle, and posterior cingulate cortices. This could be indicative of heightened brain activity, even though the motor task was mild, potentially sparking neuroplastic changes given the brain’s cognitive reserve (Esiri and Chance, 2012; Chapman et al., 2015). This hypothesis aligns with animal studies demonstrating new neuronal and synaptic connections in advanced age, increased cortical thickness, enhanced brain weight, and changes in blood flow (Mora, 2013). Contrastingly, groups engaged solely in motor exercise exhibited changes in the hippocampus without modifications in cerebrovascular reactivity (Chapman et al., 2016).

Theories of brain plasticity have been at the forefront of recent research (Chiu et al., 2017; Yamada and Sumiyoshi, 2021). The combination of increased cerebral blood flow and its synergistic response on global cognitive function could foster the nervous system’s ability to reorganize neuronal activity and function, a process known as neuroplasticity, thereby enhancing cognitive learning (Kwan et al., 2021). Diminished activation of prefrontal areas is linked with greater neural efficiency, while reduced activation of frontoparietal areas suggests improved cognitive performance post-training (Schättin et al., 2016; Vermeij et al., 2017). In a similar vein, Park et al. (2020) asserted that cognitive-motor interventions stimulate brain neurotransmitters, particularly the cholinergic and dopaminergic systems, thereby bolstering concentration and memory in older adults (Hwang et al., 2021; Yang et al., 2022). The literature consistently highlights the impact of physical exercise on cognitive functions, particularly executive functions, due to the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and increased hippocampal blood flow, both of which result in favorable metabolic effects (Liao et al., 2020).

Traditional cognitive tests, primarily pencil-and-paper based, have received criticism for their inherent limitations, including the omission of key factors such as an individual’s education level (Kessels, 2019; Palacios-Navarro et al., 2022). However, the emergence of VR and ecological momentary assessments through wearable devices present innovative alternatives capable of enhancing precision and sensitivity in cognitive assessments (Chan et al., 2018; Hartle et al., 2021). These methods not only supplement traditional tests but also pave the way for a new direction in rehabilitation interventions. The landscape of cognitive treatment methodologies is evolving, with both traditional and VR-based techniques demonstrating efficacy. Both conventional cognitive training programs and VR-based interventions have induced improvements in cognition and executive functions among older adults. Specifically, VR interventions shine in their capacity to simulate ADLs, thereby emerging as a promising tool for cognitive rehabilitation in early stage cognitive disorders (Wollesen et al., 2020; Matsangidou et al., 2023).

Immersive VR offers a stimulating and engaging experience for seniors, enhancing their motivation and enjoyment. Besides its adaptability and high level of automation, these features can alleviate the workload for caregivers and medical professionals (Bauer and Andringa, 2020). Immersive VR also fosters a sense of autonomy in older adults, which is vital for their emotional and cognitive wellbeing. The current review and recent studies suggest that older adults can tolerate and significantly benefit from immersive VR regarding cognitive and physical health (Yi et al., 2022; Matsangidou et al., 2023), as highlighted by Słyk et al. (2019) in their systematic review. However, it is of utmost importance to tailor these interventions to the individual needs and capabilities of participants, necessitating adjustments in task difficulty, session duration, and supervision during training.

Virtual reality, particularly when simulating iADLs, is carving a niche in cognitive-motor rehabilitation (Arlati et al., 2017). Such training programs are well received by patients and can be applied across various clinical environments, including community centers and senior care facilities (Kwan et al., 2021). Patient safety is paramount, requiring careful evaluation before inclusion in these programs and vigilant monitoring for symptoms of VR-induced dizziness post-training (Kwan et al., 2021). VR exhibits significant flexibility in its implementation, suitable for a range of clinical contexts from neurology clinics and rehabilitation centers to home care settings (McDaniel et al., 2014). Successful implementation, however, hinges on the availability of appropriate equipment and trained personnel. In conclusion, VR holds immense potential to revolutionize the treatment of cognitive disorders, offering a personalized and motivating approach to rehabilitation.

When designing future studies that utilize iADL-m based VR interventions, it is imperative to consider the sociodemographic characteristics of participants. Factors such as age, education level, family history, and cognitive disorders should be accounted for, as these variables could potentially influence the results. Moreover, interventions need to be tailored to each participant’s physical condition to avoid injury or loss of motivation. To this end, maintaining a heart rate between 50 and 75% of the maximum is suggested, which some may perceive as moderately intense. Notably, most participants in the reviewed studies were primary-educated women, highlighting the need to consider these variables when designing effective interventions for older adults.

The duration of interventions also requires careful consideration. The systematic review conducted by Kelly et al. (2014) evaluated training and cognitive stimulation in older adults and their influence on cognition and daily functioning. They identified that studies lasting at least 10 sessions and whose exercises are adapted to the conditions of the population using level advancements or hints have higher skill maintenance effects. It is important to consider that a high number of sessions could generate a repeated learning effect that promotes disinterest and unreliable results, as mentioned by Cooley et al. (2015). Furthermore, McDaniel et al. (2014) suggested that, although aerobic exercise can enhance certain tasks, repeating the same exercise for an extended period might decrease interest and motivation.

In terms of experimental design aimed at improving cognitive and physical health, the inclusion of an active control group is recommended for more accurate comparisons. It is also important for participants to follow similar training routines, either through comparable interactive applications or by conducting physical and cognitive exercises at home using accessible interactive headsets. Ensuring that the application is specially designed for the study population and adapts the difficulty levels to each individual’s characteristics is crucial. Strategies such as incorporating clues or positive feedback in the systems, as suggested by Arlati et al. (2017), can help maintain participants’ motivation. In the same vein, including distractors, like presenting several brands of the same product in a simulated supermarket task, can test the participants’ concentration. However, it is essential to consistently use and position the same elements to prevent information bias (Arlati et al., 2017).

As mentioned by Wollesen et al. (2020), traditional interventions that combine cognitive and motor aspects, along with technology-based exercise games, have shown favorable impacts on general cognition and inhibitory capacity in older adults. However, due to the heterogeneity of studies concerning interventions, measurements, and results, caution is needed when interpreting these results. Future research may explore the benefits and challenges of a hybrid approach that combines “pencil and paper” activities with an exercise program, enhanced by interactive technology. Some proposals have suggested a training program that merges both real and virtual environments (Foloppe et al., 2018). This approach could potentially be replicated in a more diverse and representative sample. These integrated approaches have the potential to optimize cognitive and physical outcomes in older adults by leveraging the benefits of conventional therapies–which are accessible, affordable, easy to use, and clinically validated–and the personalization and motivation offered by interactive-based interventions.

By considering the unique needs and capabilities of older individuals, comprehensive interventions that combine physical and cognitive exercises can be developed. This holistic approach optimizes the potential for cognitive function improvement, promotes independence, and enhances older adults’ overall quality of life. In particular, new technologies can supplement unsupervised home training methods, providing older individuals with a handy tool for conducting appropriate training sessions independently. By offering immersive and stimulating experiences, interactive technology can boost older adults’ motivation and engagement, which may, in turn, positively impact their training outcomes and quality of life.