This systematic review examined the associations between movement behaviours (i.e., physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep duration) and quality of life (QOL) in adults ≥65 years of age. Four databases were searched in June 2021. Studies were eligible for inclusion if published within the last 20 years, peer-reviewed, examined apparently healthy older adults, and analysed ≥2 movement behaviours together. QOL was represented by the World Health Organization Quality of Life measure which conceptualizes QOL by distinct domains. Study results were categorized and presented by domain. Risk of bias was completed for all included studies using methods described in the Cochrane Handbook. Thirty-one studies with 307 292 participants were included that examined QOL outcomes across seven domains: superdomain (composite measures), perceived physical health, mental and psychological states, level of independence, social relationships, environment, and general health. Findings indicated that moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity was favourably associated with QOL. Time re-allocation studies that showed moving time into physical activity from sedentary behaviour were associated with favourable QOL changes. The evidence regarding sedentary behaviour and sleep duration was inconsistent. The quality of evidence was very low for all domains. In conclusion, there is consistent evidence that physical activity improves QOL in adults ≥65 years of age. International Prospective Register of Ongoing Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registration No.: CRD42021260566.
Keywords: older adults; physical activity; public health; quality of life; sedentary behaviour; sleep.