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Effects of different types of physical exercise on executive function of older adults: a scoping review
Zhidong Cai1, Ruibao Cai2, Li Sen3
1Department of Physical Education, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China.
Objective:
This scoping review examined the impact of physical exercise on executive function (EF) in older adults and investigated the moderating effects of exercise types.
Methods:
We systematically searched four electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of exercise on EF, published until November 26, 2023. The proportions of positive and null/negative effects across all studies were calculated.
Results:
In total, 91 studies were included in the analysis. Among these, 27 (29.7%) studies employed aerobic exercise interventions for older adults' EF, with 19 (70.4%) studies reporting positive effects. Additionally, 18 (19.8%) studies utilized strength exercise interventions for older adults' EF, with 15 (83.3%) studies demonstrating positive benefits. Furthermore, 32 (35.2%) studies employed coordination exercise interventions for older adults' EF, with 25 (78.1%) studies showing positive benefits. Similarly, 30 (33%) studies applied mixed exercise interventions for older adults' EF, with 25 (83.3%) studies indicating positive benefits.
Conclusion:
Overall, all four types of physical exercise enhance EF in older adults, with mixed exercises being the most effective.
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