Reduces social isolation
Evidence summary
The consensus following the expert group in April was that group physical activity if preferred by the individual can reduce social isolation. Meta-analyses of 5 RCTs comparing exercise to the usual care showed a non-statistically significant moderate effect on the social Quality of Life domain (SMD=0.28, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.71, p = 0.18)16.
Quality of evidence
Low quality
Strength of recommendation
Strong
Conclusion
There is limited evidence that physical activity improves social outcomes. The expert group re-iterated that participation in group activities is only recommended if it is the individual’s choice.
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