The Effectiveness of Exercise on Improving Cognitive Function of the Elderly: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background. The well-documented physical benefits of exercise and the value of exercise for improving mental health has grown in importance. However, the studies evaluating the effects of exercise on neurocognitive function have produced equivocal results. Purpose. To examine the effectiveness of exercise on improving cognitive function in the elderly. Review Methods. Narrative synthesis approach was used for this review. A computer- based search was carried out in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and Airiti Library ( Chinese) from 2006 - 2009 by using the search terms of exercise”, physical activity”, and cognition. Research quality appraisal was rated by the CONSORT criteria. Results. A total of 12 medium to high quality randomized controlled trials were included in this review. The studies showed a 60-minute exercise regimen scheduled three times per week and continued for 24 weeks was used by most studies. Eight of the 12 studies revealed that exercise can improve cognitive function. Five studies focused on the healthy elderly and three studied the elderly who had impaired cognition at baseline. Analysis of the studies showed that simple, one-component exercise is better for the elderly with cognitive impairment whereas for those who are not impaired, multi-component exercise produced a more positive effect. Conclusions and implications for practice. This systematic review demonstrates that an exercise regimen of six weeks and at least 3 times per week for 60 minutes had a positive effect on cognition. Whether multi-component exercise is more effective on improving cognitive function, particularly for the healthy elderly, should be tested by larger trials with more rigorous methodology.