Narrative review: stretching and mobility in older adults
A narrative review reports fairly consistent benefits of stretching for range of motion and flexibility in older adults, but less consistent findings for balance, overall function and fall prevention. [1]
Automatic summary · not editorially reviewed
The key findings
The review examined stretching in older adults with focus on joint mobility, physical function, pain and functional autonomy. [1]
Benefits for range of motion and flexibility were relatively consistent, while findings for balance and fall prevention were less consistent. [1]
Stretching is not presented as a stand-alone intervention but as a possible complementary part of multicomponent exercise programs. [1]
The source at a glance
- Study type / format
- Narrative literature review (abstract only)
- Population / context
- Older adults, as described in the review abstract.
- Summary based on
- Study abstract
- Original publication
- October 1, 2026
Review question on stretching in older adults
The review asks whether stretching is useful for older adults, focusing on joint mobility, physical function, pain and functional autonomy. It notes that aging is associated with changes in the musculoskeletal system that may reduce joint mobility, flexibility and motor function and may affect autonomy. Stretching is described as commonly included in adapted physical activity and rehabilitation programs for older people.
Supporting source [1]
Reported benefits and inconsistent outcomes
The authors describe relatively consistent benefits of stretching for range of motion and flexibility. Some studies also report favorable effects on perceived stiffness, musculoskeletal pain and selected aspects of motor function. Findings on overall functional performance, balance and fall prevention are described as less consistent.
Supporting source [1]
Stretching as complementary, not stand-alone
The review concludes that stretching does not appear to be a stand-alone intervention for maintaining physical function in older adults. It may be a complementary part of multicomponent exercise programs. Its usefulness seems greater for joint mobility, perceived stiffness and movement quality, especially in people with reduced mobility or baseline functional limitations.
Supporting source [1]
How to interpret this
This is an abstract of a narrative review; the full text was not reviewed. No sample sizes, study counts, follow-up periods or effect sizes are reported in the abstract.
Based on the study abstract; the full paper, tables and supplementary data were not reviewed.
Source & supporting passages
Tenace D, Boccini A, Perniola M, Cigni S, Lisi R. · europepmc.org · October 1, 2026