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Exercise Interventions for Older Adults with Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Julie M Faieta1, Hannes Devos2, Elena Philippou3
1Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|August 12, 2026
Summary
Physical exercise (PE) significantly improves cognitive function in Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevalence is increasing, necessitating effective interventions.
- Early diagnosis of AD allows for timely support and management.
- Optimal physical exercise (PE) strategies for cognitive enhancement in AD remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effectiveness of PE on cognitive function in older adults with AD.
- To identify the optimal PE dosage for improving cognitive outcomes in AD patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies from Embase, PsycInfo, and Ovid Medline.
- Included 21 studies published between 1991 and 2020.
- Extracted data on cognitive domains, daily living activities, emotional well-being, quality of life, and caregiver burden.
Main Results:
- PE significantly improved 4 out of 5 cognitive domains (global cognition, memory, language, attention, executive function).
- Exercise interventions also benefited activities of daily living, emotional well-being, and quality of life.
- Optimal PE dosage identified as <60 minutes, at least 3 times per week.
Conclusions:
- PE is effective in enhancing cognitive function and other outcomes in individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
- Provides guidance on optimal exercise parameters for maximizing cognitive benefits in AD.
- Supports the integration of tailored exercise programs into AD care.
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