The Effect of Movement-Based Mind-Body Therapies on Quality of Life and Function in Older Adults with Cancer: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: The number of adults 65 years or older is expected to grow, and with that the prevalence of cancer will increase as well. Cancer and cancer treatment in addition to the aging process negatively impact quality of life (QoL) and function in older adults. Mind-body therapies have shown promising effects in reducing cancer-related side effects, but no systematic reviews have been conducted showing the effectiveness of movement-based mind-body therapies (MBMBTs) in 65 years and older adults with cancer. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine whether MBMBTs are effective in improving QoL and function in older adults with cancer. Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines (PROSPERO registration no. CRD42021282484). MEDLINE, CINAHL, AgeLine, and CENTRAL were searched from January 2000 through September 2021. Methodological quality was assessed according to the Modified Downs and Black checklist. Results: A total of 6322 articles were screened for eligibility, and 11 met the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 2 were of limited quality, 6 of moderate quality, and 3 of strong quality. In 10 of the 11 included studies, the MBMBTs of yoga and Qigong showed improvements or no change in QoL and function in older adults with cancer. Conclusion: Movement-based mind-body therapies are safe and effective treatments that could lead to improvements, or at least no decline, in QoL and function in older adults with cancer. Research focused on the older adult population with cancer is limited and would benefit from further exploration.