Effect of different types of physical activity on activities of daily living in older adults: systematic review and meta-analysis

Roberts, C. E., Phillips, L. H., Cooper, C. L., Gray, S. and Allan, J. L. (2017) Effect of different types of physical activity on activities of daily living in older adults: systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 25(4), pp. 653-670. (doi: 10.1123/japa.2016-0201) (PMID:28181837)

Abstract

Physical activity is associated with greater independence in old age. However, little is known about the effect of physical activity level and activity type on activities of daily living (ADL). This review systematically analyzed the effects of physical activity level and activity type on ADL in older adults (mean age, 60+). Electronic search methods (up to March 2015) identified 47 relevant, randomized controlled trials. Random effects meta-analyses revealed significant, beneficial effects of physical activity on ADL physical performance (SMD = 0.72, 95% CI [0.45, 1.00]; p < 0.01), with the largest effects found for moderate physical activity levels, and for activity types with high levels of mental (e.g. memory, attention), physical (e.g. coordination, balance) and social (e.g. social interaction) demands. Inconsistent effects were observed on self-reported ADL measures. Interventions that include moderate physical activity levels with high mental, physical and social demands may produce greatest benefits on ADL physical performance.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Gray, Professor Stuart
• Authors: Roberts, C. E., Phillips, L. H., Cooper, C. L., Gray, S., and Allan, J. L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
• Publisher: Human Kinetics
• ISSN: 1063-8652
• ISSN (Online): 1543-267X
• Published Online: 01 January 2017
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2017 Human Kinetics
• First Published: First published in Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 25(4):653-670
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher