Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
2
Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
3
Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
4
Departments of Islamic Education, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
5
Department of Operating Room, Faculty Member of Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur,Iran
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: Digital health and tele-nursing interventions have emerged as promising strategies to support healthy aging; however, their overall effectiveness on key geriatric outcomes remains inconclusive. The present study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of these interventions on frailty, cognitive function, and quality of life among older adults.
Method: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with established methodological guidelines. Randomized controlled trials examining digital health or tele-nursing interventions in older adults were included. Three primary outcomes were analyzed: frailty, cognitive function, and quality of life. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using random-effects models, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic.
Results: Twelve studies were included with a total of 2,679 participants (1,308 in intervention groups and 1,371 in control groups). Meta-analysis demonstrated that digital health interventions significantly reduced frailty (SMD = −0.355, p < 0.001) and improved quality of life (SMD = 1.046, p = 0.018). However, no statistically significant effect was observed for cognitive function (SMD = 0.126, p = 0.366).
Conclusion: Digital health and tele-nursing interventions appear to be effective in reducing frailty and improving quality of life among older adults, while their impact on cognitive function remains uncertain. Future research should focus on standardized, multidomain intervention designs incorporating targeted cognitive training to enhance effectiveness across all geriatric outcomes.
Keywords
Healthy Aging Perspectives