Effects of Traditional Chinese Exercises on Frailty, Quality of Life, and Physical Function on Frail and Pre-Frail Older People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE: To explore the effects of traditional Chinese exercises (TCEs) on the frailty status, quality of life, and physical function of frail and pre-frail older adults. METHODS: Eight databases were searched from inception to March 28, 2022. Methodological quality and heterogeneity were assessed. Mean difference (MD) or standardized MD (SMD) were pooled using random-effects or fixed-effects meta-analysis, depending on heterogeneity. RESULTS: A total of 12 articles were included. Results showed relieved frailty status of frail and pre-frail older adults (SMD = -1.46; 95% CI [-2.39, -0.53]; p < 0.01); quality of life improved (SMD = 0.91, 95% CI [0.19, 1.63]; p < 0.01); grip strength enhanced doing Badaunjin (MD = 2.51, 95% CI [1.09, 3.93]; p < 0.01), but no significant improvement with Taichi (MD = 0.10, 95% CI [-2.3,2.5]; p = 0.93); dynamic balance ability improved (MD = -2.57, 95% CI [-2.90, -2.25], p < 0.01); 4.5-m walking time shortened (MD = -0.95; 95% CI [-1.70, -0.20]; p < 0.001); gait speed improved (MD = 0.04; 95% CI [0.01, 0.07]; p = 0.003); lower body endurance increased (MD = 33.78; 95% CI [10.99, 56.68]; p = 0.004); Lower limb flexibility improved (SMD = -2.07; 95% CI [-2.94, -1.21]; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that TCEs may be helpful in alleviating frailty status and improving the quality of life and physical functions of frail and pre-frail older adults. Lastly, additional high-quality clinical trials are warranted despite the limited strong evidence.