The number of people living with cognitive impairment is increasing rapidly. Previous research has shown that digital cognitive training is a promising, safe, and efficacious non-pharmacological treatment, but it is unclear which digital intervention is most effective. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of different digital interventions on cognitive function mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia.

This study evaluated the efficacy of different digital interventions for patients with MCI or dementia through a network meta-analysis.

We systematically searched Pubmed, Web of science, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI),VIP Journal, and Wanfang Database from inception to 1 January 2025 and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated efficacy of computerized cognitive intervention on global cognition, executive function, and memory function in patients with MCI or dementia. The consistency model was used to conduct a network meta-analysis.

A total of 57 articles were included in the review, including 3182 participants. Network meta-analysis showed that mobile device-based electronic games were the most effective intervention in slowing the decline of global cognition (standard mean difference (SMD) = 5.09, 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) 2.17, 11.91) and the decline of executive function (SMD = 0.17, 95 % CI 0.03, 0.90) in the most effective interventions. As for memory function, immersive virtual reality technology was the most effective cognitive intervention to slow down memory decline (SMD = 2.71, 95 % CI 1.35, 5.46).

Digital cognitive interventions have better efficacy compared to conventional therapies, and mobile video games and immersive virtual reality may be the best digital cognitive interventions to slow cognitive decline.