Work

A systematic review and meta-analysis of lifestyle interventions for informal caregivers of older adults: effects on behavioral change, mental health, and physical health

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Informal caregivers of older adults often experience poorer lifestyle behaviors and elevated risks of physical and mental health problems. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of lifestyle interventions on behavioral, mental, and physical health outcomes among caregivers of older adults, and explored whether intervention characteristics influenced outcomes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO CRD42023439797), a systematic search was conducted using PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and EMBASE up to July 11, 2025. Randomized controlled trials were included. Pooled estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. RESULTS: 21 studies (N = 2,099) were identified, with 17 included in the meta-analysis. Most interventions focused on physical activity, few addressed sleep or nutrition and none targeted smoking or alcohol use. Pooled estimates derived mainly from physical activity interventions suggested a small reduction in depressive symptoms (SMD = -0.34, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.20). Subgroup analyses suggested that depressive symptom reductions reached statistical significance only in hybrid physical activity interventions combining in-person sessions with technology-supported monitoring, but not in telephone-based or in-person formats. Most studies were rated as high risk of bias. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Preliminary findings, largely derived from physical activity interventions, suggest a small reduction in depressive symptoms, with no consistent effects for physical activity, sleep quality, caregiving burden, stress, or self-rated health. The evidence is limited in scope and rigor. Future research may target a broader range of lifestyle behaviors.

Source: The Gerontologist

DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnag197

Authors: Dara Kiu Yi Leung, Lucy Xi Lu, Yun-Han Wang, Yun-Lin Wang, Artemis Sze Kok Fung, Tingan Jin

Institutions: Chinese University of Hong Kong, University of Hong Kong, Ming Chuan University, Purdue University West Lafayette

Language: English

Topic: Nursing care and research

Subfield: Pharmacy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,408