Functional social support and physical activity in community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BMC Public HealthSep 1, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchGeriatricsOpen access

Paula Steinhoff, Lea Ellwardt, Amelie Reiner

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In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the relationship between functional social support (SOSU) and physical activity (PA) in community-dwelling older adults, analyzing 54 studies with 252,206 participants. The results indicated a moderate significant association between general SOSU and PA (β=0.35, 95% CI: 0.16-0.53), with stronger effects noted for companionship and emotional support.

Key findings

  • Moderate significant association between general SOSU and PA (β=0.35, 95% CI: 0.16-0.53).
  • Small but significant association between social support specifically for PA and PA (β=0.12, 95% CI: 0.06-0.17).
  • Associations were strongest for light and leisure-time PA, particularly in women.
  • Longitudinal studies suggested a stable positive association between SOSU and PA over time.

Why it matters

Understanding the role of functional social support in promoting physical activity can inform interventions aimed at enhancing engagement in older adults, ultimately contributing to healthier aging and improved quality of life.

Source

PubMed · PMID 42681613Free full text on PubMed Central

Published in BMC Public Health. This summary was written by xxcode from the publication's abstract and metadata. It is not peer reviewed and is not a substitute for the original article. For clinical decisions, review the original publication.

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