Digital reminiscence-based interventions to enhance social interaction of people with dementia in care homes: A scoping review.

Abstract

The use of digital tools in reminiscence interventions has increased in recent years, encompassing multimedia platforms, virtual reality (VR), digital life storybooks, and interactive applications. Yet, evidence regarding the effectiveness of digital reminiscence-based interventions remains limited. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesise the existing evidence on digital reminiscence-based interventions in care homes, with a focus on: (i) their development and evaluation; (ii) the extent to which they address cultural diversity and inclusivity; (iii) the support provided to end users; and (iv) the barriers and facilitators influencing their implementation. A systematic search of five databases (MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science), and three grey literature sources (BASE, King’s Fund Database, PsyArXiv) was undertaken. Reference lists of key papers were also hand-searched. Studies of all methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods) were included. Sixteen studies involving 365 participants met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were grouped into: (i) digital reminiscence, (ii) digital life story, and (iii) immersive VR. Reminiscence and life story interventions improved emotional wellbeing and social engagement, while VR mainly supported stimulation and mood. Stakeholder involvement in design of technology was limited, especially for people with dementia, and reporting on cultural diversity was minimal. Variation in intervention design and outcomes limited conclusions on overall effectiveness. Implementation facilitators were ability to personalise content, care provider/home manager support, staff engagement and training, and family involvement. Barriers included technology usability, organisational infrastructure and support, workforce knowledge and capacity, and difficulties integrating into routine care practices. Digital reminiscence generally improved wellbeing, mood, cognition, communication, social interaction, although findings were mixed and limited by small samples, and varied intervention designs and outcome measures. Future research should prioritise co-creation with people with dementia, families, and staff; include more diverse populations across the disease trajectory; and explore sustainable integration into routine care practice