가상현실(VR)과 증강현실(AR)을 활용한 치매 관리 방법의 탐색: 문헌고찰을 중심으로

This study explores the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) as non-pharmacological interventions for managing dementia, particularly in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early-stage dementia. By systematically reviewing 25 empirical studies published between 2017 and 2025 — including 12 VR-based and 9 AR-based interventions — this research analyzes cognitive, emotional, and quality-of-life outcomes. VR interventions demonstrated significant improvements in spatial awareness, attention, and emotional engagement through immersive recall therapy and cognitive training. AR interventions, leveraging real-world contextual learning, showed effectiveness in enhancing memory, daily functioning, and task sequencing. Both approaches were feasible in public health settings, with VR being more effective in immersive engagement and AR offering high accessibility and usability. The findings suggest that VR and AR technologies can serve as practical digital therapeutics in dementia care, emphasizing the need for policy integration, elderly-friendly design, and scalable implementation frameworks.