Comparative efficacy of aerobic exercise and mind-body practices in improving sleep quality and psychological distress among elderly breast cancer patients: a systematic review

Elderly breast cancer patients often face severe sleep disturbances and psychological distress due to the disease itself and its treatment process, significantly reducing their quality of life. In recent years, non-pharmacological interventions, represented by aerobic exercise and mind-body practices, have demonstrated great potential in improving the physical and mental health of patients. This paper aims to systematically review existing literature and compare the effects of aerobic exercise and mind-body practices on sleep quality and psychological distress in elderly breast cancer patients. The review focuses on analyzing the similarities and differences between the two intervention approaches in improving sleep architecture, alleviating psychological stress including anxiety and depression, and their associated physiological mechanisms. By synthesizing the latest evidence from clinical trials and intervention studies, this paper explores the clinical application value of these two intervention strategies, identifies current research limitations, and suggests future research directions. This aims to provide theoretical foundations and practical guidance for developing individualized, precision rehabilitation plans tailored to elderly breast cancer patients.