Background
Many randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that exercise benefits cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), but less attention has been paid to the development of exercise programs in this population.
Objective
This study aimed to assess the effect of exercise intervention for elderly with MCI and provide the most effective exercise intervention plan.
Methods
We searched 4 international databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) and 4 Chinese databases (Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP database and Wanfang database) for studies on exercises associated with MCI up to September 25, 2022. The resulting standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals were statistically analyzed using Review Manager 5.3 software.
Results
A total of 20 RCTs were comprised in this meta-analysis, including 1393 participants. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that exercise had positive effects on cognitive function in elderly with MCI and was statistically significant (SMD = 1.25, 95%CI: [0.88,1.62], P < .00001). Subgroup analysis showed that the most significant factor was the Peterson 2004 criteria, multi-exercise, 35 to 50 minutes/times, <3 times/3 to 5 times per week, >16 weeks and medium intensity.
Conclusion
Exercise intervention can significantly alleviate cognition in elderly with MCI. The best exercise program for exercise intervention for MCI is: multi-exercise, 35 to 50 minutes/times, 3 to 5 times/week, and exercise cycle for more than 16 weeks with medium intensity, has the best effect. Plus, more RCTs with larger sample sizes will be required in the future to demonstrate the link between exercise duration, intensity, and cognitive function.