Physical activity and psychological well-being in advanced age: a meta-analysis of intervention studies.
A meta-analysis examined data from 36 studies linking physical activity to well-being in older adults without clinical disorders. The weighted mean-change effect size for treatment groups (d(C). = 0.24) was almost 3 times the mean for control groups (d(C). = 0.09). Aerobic training was most beneficial (d(C). = 0.29), and moderate intensity activity was the most beneficial activity level (d(C). = 0.34). Longer exercise duration was less beneficial for several types of well-being, though findings are inconclusive. Physical activity had the strongest effects on self-efficacy (d(C).= 0.38), and improvements in cardiovascular status, strength, and functional capacity were linked to well-being improvement overall. Social-cognitive theory is used to explain the effect of physical activity on well-being.
Netz
Yael
Y
School of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Zinman College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Wingate Institute 42902, Netanta, Israel. neyael@wincol.ac.il
Wu
Meng-Jia
MJ
Becker
Betsy Jane
BJ
Tenenbaum
Gershon
G
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012919:Social Behavior