Abstract: Retrieval practice is a strategy that enhances memory efficiency by extracting information from the memory system through methods such as testing or free recall. Some clinical patients may face memory or cognitive impairments. This paper systematically reviews, for the first time, research on retrieval practice in clinical populations from January 2020 to July 2025, resulting in the inclusion of 22 studies. The results demonstrated that retrieval practice has good applicability in clinical populations, leading to improvements in cognitive impairments such as memory and language disorders. However, in some diseases, the effectiveness of retrieval practice may be moderated by the core cognitive deficits associated with the condition, the complexity and ecological validity of the learning materials, as well as the presence of other therapeutic interventions. Future studies could further investigate the moderating factors and focus on interventions for comorbid conditions, indirect benefits, and the role of individual differences. In terms of clinical translation, measures such as clarifying intervention goals, strengthening guidance and education, and adopting a gradual implementation strategy should be taken to enhance the clinical applicability of retrieval practice.

Key words: Retrieval practice, Clinical, Memory, Cognitive rehabilitation