Effects of interventions on life-space mobility for community-dwelling older adults: A systematic review and...

The present study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the methods and effects of interventions to increase life-space mobility among community-dwelling older adults.

Records were identified through nine databases. Eligible study designs for inclusion in the review were randomized controlled trials of interventions on life-space mobility for community-dwelling older adults. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool. We followed the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to summarize the evidence.

Four studies (558 participants) identified via search strategies were included. Two studies involved individualized exercise and lifestyle interventions. In three out of the four studies, individual interventions were applied. Overall, when compared with a control group, the intervention group was more likely to positively affect increasing life-space mobility (standardized mean difference 0.47, 95% confidence interval [0.020 to 0.92]). The heterogeneity statistic indicated considerable heterogeneity (I²  = 84%). The evidence was downgraded one step owing to imprecision.

Interventions on increasing life-space mobility for community-dwelling older adults have a positive effect. Combination interventions may be more effective than single interventions, and individual interventions may be more effective than group interventions. However, owing to the limited number of studies, conducting further research to enhance the generalizability of results is crucial. Additionally, subgroup analysis should be conducted to clarify differences in intervention methods and effects. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 842-848.