Effect of different exercises on sleep quality in elderly women: a systematic review

Sleep disorder is a common problem in elderly women, which can cause problems and acute complications on society and the healthcare system, including reducing the quality of life. Exercise is a simple, low-cost, and effective way to improve sleep quality. The purpose of this study was to critically review the available literature on different types of physical activity that affect the sleep quality of elderly women to determine which type of physical activity can improve their sleep quality. A systematic search adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and randomised controlled trial (RCT) studies that met the inclusion criteria was conducted in the databases of Google Scholar, PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science from January 1, 2020, to March 18, 2024. One hundred and thirty-nine articles were retrieved, of which 13 randomised controlled trial studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings of these studies showed that performing various exercises, including water sports, resistance, aerobics, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Baduanjin exercises across varying intensities from low to high, can improve the quality of sleep of elderly women. Research indicates that diverse exercise programs tailored for elderly women can effectively enhance sleep quality and its associated aspects.