Meta-analysis of the effect of exercise intervention on cognitive function in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Abstract Objective Cognitive dysfunction is a common complication of diabetes after central nervous system involvement. The impact of exercise, as an important non-pharmacological intervention strategy, on cognitive function remains controversial. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to assess the impact of exercise on cognitive function of elderly patients with type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods We computer searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang date, and VIP, and traced back the references included in the literature from 1974 to July 2024. We used RevMan5.4 software for data analysis, and also conducted sensitivity, subgroup, and publication bias analyses. Results Eight eligible studies with a combined total of 747 elderly patients with T2DM were included. Meta-analysis showed that the combined effect size of exercise intervention on cognitive improvement in elderly patients with T2DM was significant [SMD = 0.65, 95% CI (0.48, 0.82), P 6 month intervention [SMD = 0.21, 95% CI (0.45, 0.81), P < 0.01]); intervention forms (single exercise [SMD = 0.21, 95% CI (0.45, 0.81), P < 0.01] and multiple exercise [SMD = 0.86, 95% CI ( 0.39,1.33), P < 0.0001]). Conclusion Exercise intervention may improve cognitive function in elderly patients with T2DM.

Keywords

• Elderly
• Type 2 diabetes
• Exercise intervention
• Cognitive function
• Meta-analysis