Endorsement of Artificial Intelligence Guidelines Across Leading Geriatric Journals: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing Geriatrics and Gerontology research by significantly enhancing data analysis, systematic reviews, and clinical applications. However, its integration introduces challenges related to transparency, ethical considerations, and reproducibility. This study scrutinizes the approaches adopted by leading Geriatrics and Gerontology journals in addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities through their author instructions and policies.

Methods: A cross-sectional review of the top 100 peer-reviewed Geriatrics and Gerontology journals, as ranked by the 2023 SCImago SJR indicator, was conducted. Data were meticulously extracted from each journal’s "Instructions for Authors" to assess AI-related policies, encompassing AI-specific reporting guidelines, authorship criteria, and the utilization of AI in manuscript preparation and image generation. Correlational analyses were performed to explore the relationship between AI policies and various journal characteristics.

Results: Among the 100 journals evaluated, 28% explicitly addressed AI usage within their instructions, predominantly prohibiting AI authorship while mandating the disclosure of AI involvement in submissions. AI-generated content was sanctioned by 37% of journals, whereas 26% permitted AIgenerated images. Notably, journals with higher impact factors were more inclined to incorporate detailed AI policies, although substantial gaps in standardization and guidance persist.

Conclusion: While numerous Geriatrics and Gerontology journals acknowledge the transformative role of AI in research, a minority endorse AI-specific reporting guidelines, thereby limiting the standardization and transparency of AI usage. It is recommended that comprehensive guidelines be adopted to ensure ethical, reproducible, and high-quality research in the era of AI-driven innovation.