Nature-based interventions using technology for health: a scoping review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37914/riis.v8i2.427Keywords:
technology, virtual reality, nature, healthAbstract
Background: nature-based interventions are generally recognized for their ability to improve health and wellbeing. Objectives: this scoping review maps the evidence on the use of technology to enhance nature-based interventions, examining various digital tools and their impact on maximizing the benefits of nature-based experiences. Methodology: a scoping review was carried out following the PRISMA ScR guidelines. The sources consisted of searching four electronic databases to identify studies published between 2014-2024. The selection process for this study was conducted using Rayyan software, and the retrieved data was then synthesized using a narrative approach. Results: there were 12 studies that met the inclusion criteria and of these, all used virtual reality or augmented reality to simulate natural environments; the studies varied equally in terms of the participants, with 33.3% being adults, 33.3% being young adults and 33.3% being elderly. Conclusion: the use of nature-based interventions using technology has been shown to have the potential to reduce stress, improve mood and increase general well-being. However, the analysis also emphasizes the importance of further research to understand the lasting impacts and the best ways to introduce these technologies to different populations and situations.
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