Aerobic, resistance, and mind-body exercise are equivalent to mitigate symptoms of depression in older adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Background: Exercise has been identified as an allied health strategy that can support the management of depression in older adults, yet relative effectiveness for different exercise modalities is unknown. To meet this gap knowledge, we present a systematic review and network meta-analysis randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to examine head-to-head aerobic, resistance, mind-body mitigate depressive symptoms adults aged ≥ 65 years. Methods: A PRISMA-NMA compliant was undertaken on RCTs from inception September 12th, 2019. PubMed, Web Science, CINAHL, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus were systematically searched eligible enrolling with mean age years, comparing one or more intervention arms, which used valid measures symptomology. Comparative evaluated using combine direct indirect evidence, controlling inherent variation trial control groups. Results: The included 82 RCTs, 69 meeting eligibility (n = 5,379 participants). Pooled analysis found each type be effective compared controls (Hedges’ g -0.27 -0.51). Relative comparisons statistically comparable between types: resistance versus aerobic -0.06, PrI -0.91, 0.79), -0.12, -0.95, 0.72), -0.90, 0.79). High levels compliance demonstrated treatment. Conclusions: Aerobic, demonstrate equivalence comparably encouraging treatment. These findings coalesce previous clinically depressed encourage personal preference when prescribing adults. Registration: PROSPERO CRD42018115866 (23/11/2018).