Effects of aerobic exercise on global cognitive function and sleep in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the integrated effect of aerobic exercise on cognitive function and sleep in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to optimize exercise methods for improving cognitive function. We searched multiple databases from January 1, 2011, to August 31, 2022, and analyzed 11 studies. Global cognitive function in older adults with MCI undergoing aerobic exercise training was significantly improved (standardized mean difference [SMD]=0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.37, 1.14), while sleep improvement was not significant (SMD= -2.07 [95% CI: -6.76, 2.62]). In Lthe moderator analysis, aerobic exercise types with cognitive factors, exercise time of 30-50 min per session, and exercise frequency of 5-7 times per week had statistically significant effects on cognitive function improvement. However, meta-regression identified only exercise frequency as a significant moderator of the mean effect size of cognitive function.

Automated summary

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the integrated effect of aerobic exercise on cognitive function and sleep in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to optimize exercise methods for improving cognitive function. Our analysis of 11 studies showed that aerobic exercise training significantly improved global cognitive function in older adults with MCI, but had no significant effect on sleep improvement. Different types of aerobic exercise, exercise time, and exercise frequency had varying effects on cognitive function improvement, with exercise frequency being the most significant factor.