Systematic Meta-Analysis of Age-Specific Physical Activity Interventions and HRQoL Improvements: Focus on Young Adult Working Women vs. Homemakers in India

Abstract

Background: Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) reflects physical, psychological, social, and environmental well-being. Despite increasing awareness of physical activity (PA) benefits, Indian women continue to face disparities in fitness participation due to occupational and socio-cultural constraints. This study systematically reviews and synthesizes the effects of age-specific PA interventions on HRQoL among working women and homemakers in India. Methods: A systematic meta-analysis was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, IndMed, and Google Scholar databases, including studies published between 2010 and 2025. Eligible randomized controlled and observational studies examined Indian women aged 18–40 years, reporting HRQoL outcomes (SF-36, WHOQOL-BREF) following structured PA interventions (yoga, aerobic, or resistance training). Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Results: Sixteen studies (n = 2,830) met inclusion criteria. The pooled effect for HRQoL improvement was SMD = 0.50 (95% CI: 0.32–0.68; p < 0.001), indicating a moderate positive effect. Employed women showed higher physical HRQoL gains (SMD = 0.60), while homemakers achieved greater psychological improvements (SMD = 0.70). Younger women (18–25 years) demonstrated stronger adherence and HRQoL outcomes compared to older counterparts. Conclusion: Physical activity interventions significantly enhance HRQoL among Indian women, though disparities persist across occupational and age groups. Tailored PA programs, such as workplace fitness and community-based yoga for homemakers, are crucial for advancing gender-equitable well-being in India.