Healthy ageing is a multidimensional construct, where various factors play a role in influencing wellbeing in older age. Many studies heavily emphasise the importance of physical activity, negating other aspects such as psychosocial or cognitive influences. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of non-exercise-based interventions on the quality of life (QoL) and life satisfaction of community-dwelling, healthy older adults. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials was conducted. Four electronic databases were searched from inception. Three independent reviewers screened the articles and appraised the risk of bias. Data relating to study characteristics, intervention and outcomes were extracted. The mean difference and standardised mean difference with 95% confidence intervals were synthesised to pool effect sizes. Outcomes that could not be included in the meta-analysis were synthesised narratively. Thirty-six articles from 35 randomised controlled trials, involving 6,127 older adults, were included. Most were multi-component interventions and involved supporting lifelong learning. Most participants were females (70.2%). Pooled analyses revealed small but statistically significant effects on overall QoL (SMD=0.26, CI: 0.00 to 0.53), and QoL subscales relating to mental health and psychological wellbeing (SMD=0.26, CI: 0.12-0.41) and environment (SMD=0.31, CI: 0.03-0.58). Effects on social health and functioning, and role functioning related to physical health were marginal. There were no improvements in other subscales. Results revealed non statistically significant improvements in life satisfaction. Multicomponent non-exercise-based interventions that support lifelong learning in older adults can support healthy ageing, particularly in improving overall QoL, and mental health, social health and environment QoL subscales.
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