Exercise interventions for stress reduction in older adult populations: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives

To assess which forms of supervised exercise are effective in reducing psychological stress in older adults.

Research Design

Systematic Review.

Methods

Four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and SportDiscus) were searched in February of 2021. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating supervised exercise interventions for psychological stress reduction in adults aged 50 + were included in this review. Data on type, intensity, and duration of the intervention were also extracted.

Results

854 studies were identified by the search strategy. Twelve RCTs met inclusion criteria. Trials involving low-intensity qigong and trials combining aerobic and anaerobic or aerobic and nutrition/diet education demonstrated the strongest evidence for stress reduction.

Discussion and Implications

Exercise may reduce stress in older adults. Suitable duration of programme ranges from 3 months to 1 year. Light to moderate activity is recommended for best results, with qigong being the most consistent and common exercise.

KEYWORDS:

• Stress
• exercise
• qigong
• mind–body
• older adults

Acknowledgements

All authors contributed to the development of this manuscript. RC conceived the idea for this review, conducted screening and data extraction/analysis of studies, and prepared the first draft of the results and manuscript. KT conducted a second, independent screen of the studies at both the abstract/title and full-text stages. TDC helped refine the research question, provide review expertise and was third reviewer to resolve screening discrepancies. IR and LK supported the planning and refining of the study. All authors supported the editing and revising of this review and have approved the final manuscript for submission.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

TDC is supported by a Scholar Award from the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research: [grant number SCH-2020-0490].