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Integrating art therapy and technology in neurorehabilitation: a scoping review

Albani-Rocchetti M, Roman A, Federico S, Regazzetti M, Cacciante L, Cieślik B, Wrzeciono A, Szczepańska-Gieracha J et al.

Frontiers in neurology, 2026

Abstract

Background: Art therapy is emerging as a promising adjunct to neurorehabilitation, giving creative engagement to improve motor, cognitive, and emotional outcomes. Digital technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), exergames, and sensor-based systems enable immersive and interactive therapeutic experiences, potentially enhancing rehabilitation effectiveness. This scoping review systematically evaluates the impact of technology-assisted art therapy on neurological rehabilitation and to identify effective intervention types.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase following PRISMA-ScR and JBI guidelines. Studies were included if they involved adults with neurological conditions receiving technology-supported art therapy and reported motor, cognitive, or emotional outcomes.

Results: Of 584 records screened, 19 studies were included. Interventions comprised dance therapy, music therapy, and visual art therapy supported by VR platforms, tablet-based applications, serious games, and motion-tracking systems. Reported benefits included improvements in motor function, attention and executive function, emotional well-being, and therapy engagement. However, most studies were small-scale, with heterogeneous methodologies and limited follow-up periods.

Conclusion: Technology-enhanced art therapy appears to be a promising approach in neurorehabilitation, offering personalized, engaging, and potentially effective…

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