Game-Based Interventions for Health Promotion in Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Protocols and ICF-Based Outcomes

Background/Objectives: Health promotion programs are essential for older adults, and game-based interventions have emerged as promising health-promotion approaches. This systematic review aimed to synthesize and characterize game-based intervention protocols and their effects on health promotion in older adults. Methods: Randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies published between January 2014 and 31 May 2026, in English or Portuguese, with participants aged 60 years or older, were analyzed. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Health outcomes were classified according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains. The PRISMA methodology was followed. Results: Twenty-nine studies were included, presenting methodological variability across several JBI domains. Health-related outcomes were identified across multiple ICF domains. Outcomes related to learning and health management showed statistically significant findings more frequently, whereas physical and cognitive outcomes were generally more heterogeneous. Long-term evidence remains limited. Conclusions: Game-based interventions appear to support health promotion in older adults across multiple domains of functioning. The findings suggest that differences in intervention structure, delivery format, and contextual characteristics may contribute to variability in reported outcomes. However, the heterogeneity of game-based interventions and outcome measures limits direct comparison across studies. Further research is needed to validate long-term effects and condition-specific applications.