Effect of exercise on cognitive impairment in patients undergoing haemodialyses: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials

Abstract Background The influence of exercise on cognition in patients undergoing haemodialysis has been examined. However, evidence elucidating the effects in this patient group is scarce. Objective To examine the effect of exercise on cognitive impairment in patients undergoing haemodialysis and provide insight into the effects of various characteristics of exercise on cognitive impairment in this population. Design A systematic review and meta‐analysis, following the guidance of PRISMA was undertaken. Participants Adult patients undergoing haemodialysis. Results This review found that exercise significantly improved cognitive impairment in patients undergoing haemodialysis (SMD = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.60, p = 0.002). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that both intradialytic exercise (SMD = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.37, 1.26, p < 0.001) and interdialytic exercise (SMD = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.47, p = 0.038), exercise for 16 weeks or over (SMD = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.58, p = 0.012), and lasting for more than 30 minutes (SMD = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.86, p = 0.004) significantly alleviated cognitive impairment. The effect of exercise on cognitive impairment in patients less than 65 years of age (SMD = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.68, p = 0.009) was significantly better than those over 65. Conclusion Exercise significantly improves cognitive impairment in patients undergoing haemodialysis. Both Intradialytic and interdialytic exercise of at least 30 minutes duration, 3 times weekly, and at least for 16 weeks may play a significant role in alleviating cognitive impairment in patients under 65 years of age.