Exercise and multidomain programs improve healthspan measures in trials
A systematic review of randomized clinical trials in people found that exercise and multidomain interventions were effective at improving healthspan measures, such as intrinsic capacity and quality of life.
Source: Exercise and multidomain programs improve healthspan measures in trials (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). Summary written with AI from the source and reviewed by rules; read the original.
What the research shows
The systematic review pooled randomized clinical trials conducted in people and concluded that physical exercise and multidomain interventions, which combine more than one strategy at the same time, were effective at improving multidimensional healthspan indicators. Healthspan describes the years of good health a person lives. Among these indicators are intrinsic capacity, a combination of physical and mental abilities, and quality of life.
Systematic reviews combine the results of several studies, which usually gives more weight to the evidence than a single study does, but the final strength depends on the quality of the included trials and how similar they are to one another. The topic is considered a public health priority, because extending the years of good health matters to the whole population. Measures like these are not the same as direct clinical outcomes, such as falls or hospital admissions.
What it means
The finding suggests that exercise and programs with several components may help maintain aspects of health during aging. It is still unclear which formats, intensities and durations work best, and how these effects translate into disease and mortality over the years.
How to read it with care
A review of studies does not replace a medical consultation. Anyone considering changes to diet, supplements or treatment should talk with a doctor or another qualified health professional before making any decision.