Abstract
Background: A systematic search was conducted across seven databases - PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, SportDiscus, CINAHL, and PsychInfo - following PRISMA guidelines until June 18, 2023, with no year limitations. After excluding duplicates, studies were screened by two independent reviewers in a two-stage process. This review included all original intervention studies with baseline and post-intervention outcomes involving SB as a health assessment tool, and/or a part of an intervention method among people aged 60 years or over.
Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, seven databases were searched until June 18, 2023, without year limitations. After removing duplicates, two reviewers independently screened studies in two stages. This review included original intervention studies with baseline and post-intervention outcomes involving SB as a health assessment tool or intervention method among individuals aged 60 years, or older.
Results: Out of 8,022 citations, 47 English-language articles were included: 28 Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and 19 (40.43%) Non-RCTs, including Pretest-posttest and Quasi-Experimental studies. The most common focus points of the included studies were Cognitive function, Motor and Balance, Physiological and Psychological changes, Cardiovascular, and Executive function. The most common study populations had neurological problems (15/47, 31.91% studies). Among the 47 included studies, the highest participants' acceptance rate was 38% (18/47 studies), while the retention rate was 15% (07/47 studies), the adherence rate was 6% (3/47 studies), and the lowest dropout rate was 13% (06/47 studies). Significant health outcomes after SBI included aerobic capacity (VO2 max), cognition, executive function, cycling efficiency, quality of life (QOL), and mobility (Timed up and Go test), mentioned in at least 5 studies. Virtual reality (VR)-assisted SBI showed better improvement in executive function compared to non-VR groups.
Conclusion: This review reveals varying rates of acceptability, retention, adherence, and dropout in SBI, highlighting challenges in participant engagement. However, despite these challenges, SBI shows promise in enhancing physical activity among seniors, with potential benefits across various health domains. Particularly noteworthy is the effectiveness of VR-assisted SBI in improving executive function among older adults, suggesting promising avenues for intervention. These results stress the significance of incorporating SBI into health interventions for older adults.