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BMC Geriatrics
Published in: BMC Geriatrics 1/2023

Open Access 01-12-2023 | Mild Neurocognitive Disorder | Research

Review articles (Meta-Analyses) effects of walking on cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: Jia-Chi Lin, I-Hsuan Chen, Fang-Yu Cheng

Published in: BMC Geriatrics | Issue 1/2023

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Abstract

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is the stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia. Previous studies have shown that regular exercise can improve cognition and physical performance in older adults. Walking is a low-technology and low-cost exercise that has been proven to improve cognition and mobility in healthy elderly individuals. However, no systematic review or meta-analysis has explored whether walking can improve cognitive function in older adults with MCI. This study aimed to explore the effects of walking interventions on cognitive functions in individuals with MCI.

Methods

In accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, Web of Science, Airiti Library, and the National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations in Taiwan were searched from inception to July 2023. Independent reviewers selected randomized clinical trials (RCT) that compared the effects of walking with no intervention or other exercises in individuals with MCI. The primary outcomes were cognitive functions, and the secondary outcome was walking endurance. Three reviewers independently conducted data extraction. The risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool.

Results

Fourteen RCTs were included in this review. The quality of evidence in these studies was rated as good to excellent. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the individuals with MCI had no significant improvement in cognitive function but had significant improvement in the 6-min walk test (Mean Difference=23.70, p=0.008) after walking interventions compared to no intervention or other exercises.

Conclusion

Walking intervention has no significant improvement on cognitive functions in older adults with MCI. However, walking induces beneficial effects on aerobic capacity.

Trial registration

This systematic review has the registration number CRD42021283753 on PROSPERO.
Appendix
Available only for authorised users
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Metadata
Title
Review articles (Meta-Analyses) effects of walking on cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors
Jia-Chi Lin
I-Hsuan Chen
Fang-Yu Cheng
Publication date
01-12-2023
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Geriatrics / Issue 1/2023
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2318
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-023-04235-z

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