SynthesisBMC public health2026
Functional social support and physical activity in community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Synthesis in BMC public health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Authors and funding
3 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundPhysical activity (PA) is a key determinant of healthy ageing, yet a significant proportion of older adults remain insufficiently active. Functional social support (SOSU) - including emotional, instrumental, informational, companionship, and validation support - may facilitate PA engagement, but the strength and consistency of this association remain unclear.
methodsThis study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the relationship between functional SOSU and PA in community-dwelling older adults. The electronic databases APA PsycINFO, ProQuest, PSYINDEX, PubMed, Scopus, SocINDEX, and Web of Science were searched from date of database inception until 31 March 2026. A total of 54 peer-reviewed quantitative studies, representing a total of 252,206 participants, were included in the systematic review. 91% (n = 49) were cross-sectional and five were longitudinal studies. Thirty-three studies (55 models) contributed to the meta-analysis. Studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and PRISMA guidelines were followed throughout. Forty-six studies were rated as good quality, seven as fair, and one as poor. Meta-analyses focused on general SOSU and social support specifically for PA (SSPA), using subjective PA outcomes.
resultsFindings from the systematic review suggest a mostly positive association between functional SOSU and PA, particularly for companionship and emotional support. Meta-analysis revealed a moderate significant association between general SOSU and PA (β = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.16-0.53) and a small but significant association between SSPA and PA (β = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.06-0.17). Associations were strongest for light and leisure-time PA, and more consistent in women. Longitudinal studies, though limited, suggested a positive association between SOSU and PA that appeared to remain relatively stable over time.
conclusionFunctional SOSU appears to support PA in older adults, with general SOSU showing a stronger effect than SSPA. Future research should employ consistent, age-appropriate measurement tools. Additional longitudinal research is required to enable causal conclusions. Interventions integrating social support elements may improve PA uptake and promote healthier ageing.
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