The effect of mind-body exercise on cognitive function and neuroplasticity in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
PubMed 41425913 · doi:10.3389/fnagi.2025.1683808
What was done
A systematic review and meta-analysis searched four databases (Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science) through December 2023 for randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of mind-body exercise on cognitive function and brain neuroplasticity in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Outcomes included Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, gray matter volume, resting-state functional connectivity, amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation, and event-related potential P300 latency.
What was found
Nine studies were included after screening 433 records. Meta-analysis of 4 studies measuring global cognitive function with MoCA showed a significant benefit favoring the intervention (mean difference = 1.6; 95% CI: 0.70 to 2.50; p = 0.0005). Most included studies qualitatively reported increased gray matter volume in the hippocampus, anterior cingulate cortex, and frontotemporo-occipital regions, alongside altered functional connectivity within default mode and dorsal attention networks.
Why it matters
This synthesis suggests mind-body exercise can improve cognitive performance and may promote structural and functional neuroplasticity in brain regions typically vulnerable to neurodegeneration in MCI.
Limits
Only nine trials met inclusion criteria, with only four contributing to the quantitative MoCA analysis. The total participant count, specific exercise modalities, dosages, control conditions, and long-term durability are not reported in the abstract. Neuroimaging findings were described narratively rather than meta-analyzed quantitatively.
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