This study aims to synthesize existing evidence on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions designed to increase the intrinsic capacity (IC) of community-dwelling older adults.
An umbrella review of systematic reviews from 2015 to October 31, 2024 was conducted. The review included 5 databases. Eligible studies were systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMAs) that included any type of research aimed at enhancing IC in community-dwelling older adults (aged ≥60 years). The interventions covered 7 domains: locomotion, vitality, cognitive function, psychological health, sensory function, sleep, and continence.
Out of 6407 initially identified articles, 29 SRMAs comprising 400 studies with a total sample size of 43,849 participants were included. Mobility-focused interventions were the most studied among the 7 domains of IC. Moderate to low-quality evidence supports the effectiveness of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening and gait/muscle training for improving locomotor functions in older adults with frailty or acute functional decline. Nonpharmacological interventions targeting cognitive and psychological functions ranked second in the volume of available evidence. No effective sensory or continence interventions were identified. Overall, interventions have demonstrated varying effectiveness, with impacts ranging from moderate to very low across the domains of IC.
This umbrella review highlights the effectiveness of mobility/muscle strength training for improving locomotor function among frail older adult or those experiencing functional decline. However, the evidence for interventions targeting other IC domains remains limited, particularly for sensory function, and continence management. Future research should prioritize high-quality trials evaluating interventions in these areas to develop evidence-based guidelines for improving overall IC and promoting healthy aging in older adults.
Source: Lo Y, Su H, Chuenchomnoy C, et al. Umbrella review of nonpharmacological interventions for intrinsic capacity in older adults. Ageing Res Rev. 2025;108:102742. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2025.102742.
