Experiences of technology for increasing physical activity of older adults: a qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis

Technologies used to increase older adults’ physical activity encourage more daily movement. Innovative tools such as wearable devices, mobile apps, and virtual reality enhance exercise and motivation, enabling more targeted, personalized programs through health monitoring. While previous reviews explored the impact of technology on older adults’ physical activity, this study provides a synthesis of primary qualitative research focusing on older adults’ experiences with these technologies, offering an in-depth understanding of barriers, facilitators, perceptions of usability, motivations, and subjective effects. This meta-synthesis aimed to analyze, synthesize, and interpret the qualitative literature on older adults’ experiences with technology to increase physical activity. This meta-synthesis conducted a systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases from inception to January 28, 2025. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research (JBI-QARI). Data synthesis was carried out using the thematic synthesis process developed by Thomas and Harden (2008). The reliability and credibility of the findings were assessed using the ConQual approach. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO [CRD420251035985]. A total of 371 findings obtained from the 16 included studies were grouped into seven categories, resulting in two synthesized findings: (1) older adults’ pathways to meaningful technology use for physical activity and (2) structural and personal limitations in digital health engagement. The participants in all included studies were aged 60 years and older, and 61.4% were female. The technologies used to enhance physical activity included various approaches such as mHealth, telehealth, exergames, virtual reality (e.g., VR, VIMINT), wearable devices (e.g., FitBit, WAM), and digital exercise platforms (e.g., Connect 60+, Kikoeru, Alexa, ProAct65+). This study highlighted that older adults’ engagement with technology-based physical activity programs is supported by social support, accessibility, user-friendly designs, and personalized features, while it is hindered by low motivation, health or mobility issues, social isolation, environmental barriers, and technical difficulties. Tailoring interventions to individual needs, providing technical support, ensuring privacy, promoting social interaction, and developing safe, accessible, and culturally sensitive activities are essential. Future research should focus on creating inclusive technologies that enhance older adults’ physical activity.