The effect of mind-body exercise on memory in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The current systematic review aims to examine the effect of mind-body exercise on different memory types in the elderly population.

Four literature databases (Pubmed, Cochrane library, Embase and Sinomed) were searched from inception to March 19, 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effect of mind-body exercise on memory in older adults were included. The assessment of risk of bias for the included studies and data synthesis were conducted using the software of review manager 5.3 based on the Cochrane handbook.

Twelve eligible RCTs with a total 1051 participants were identified that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Meta-analysis in elderly adults without known neurological diseases showed mind-body exercise intervention had a large effect on general memory (SMD = 1.24, p = 0.005), a moderate effect on short-term memory (SMD = 0.51, p = 0.02) and long-term memory (SMD = 0.78, p < 0.001), a small effect on working memory (SMD = 0.28, p = 0.009), and a moderate effect on episodic memory (SMD = 0.74, p < 0.001) and semantic memory (SMD = 0.59, p = 0.003) compared to no specific exercise intervention. Similar results were also found in elderly adults with known neurological diseases, showing a moderate effect on general memory (SMD = 0.56, p < 0.001), short-term memory (SMD = 0.68, p = 0.01), and long-term memory (SMD = 0.80, p = 0.003); a small effect on working memory (SMD = 0.46, p < 0.001); and a large effect on episodic memory (SMD = 0.91, p < 0.001).

Compared with no specific exercise, mind-body exercise enhances memory in older adults. However, larger, more robust trials with longer follow-up periods and standardized neuropsychological outcome measures are needed before more definitive conclusions can be drawn.