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Yánez Rueda, Hugo
Research Trends in Mixed Reality for Cognitive Aging: A Bibliometric Perspective
2026
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Yánez Rueda, Hugo
In recent years, research on mixed realityMixed reality technologies encompassing virtual reality and augmented reality has gained momentum in the context of aging and cognitiveCognitive aging health. This bibliometric analysisBibliometric analysis explores global trends in scholarly output related to applications for cognitive rehabilitation and support in older adultOlder adults populations. The study analyzed 75 documents indexed in Web of Science from 2009 to 2025, using VOSviewer for visualization and co-occurrence mapping. The temporal distribution of publications indicates a sustained rise from 2018 onward, with 2024 being the most prolific year, suggesting an academic consolidation of mixed reality as a valid approach to non-pharmacological intervention for aging-related decline. The co-occurrence analysis reveals three interrelated thematic clusters: (1) technological innovation, centered around keywords like virtual reality, augmented reality, and design, reflecting the evolution of immersive interfaces adapted to cognitive and physical limitations; (2) clinical and cognitive application, including rehabilitation, impairment, dementia, and alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the alignment of mixed realityMixed reality with neurodegenerative conditions; and (3) behavioral and lifestyle engagement, with terms such as physical activity, exercise, adherence, and quality of life, indicating a growing research trend that integrates embodied interaction with well-being and behavioral change. Notably, older adultsOlder adults emerge as the most connected term, acting as a central bridge between technology and health-related objectives. This convergence suggests a shift from purely exploratory work to user-centered, context-aware applications aimed at improving autonomy and engagement in aging populations. Future research should focus on comparative regional implementations, long-term effectivenessEffectiveness, and inclusive design to ensure equitable access and sustainable deployment. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.