The effectiveness of a group-based Otago exercise program on physical function, frailty and health status in older nursing home residents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

•The physical function, frailty and health status of the older adults in nursing home constitute the three main factors affecting their physical condition.•The group-based OEP could improve physical function (i.e., mobility, balance, and lower limb strength), frailty, and health status of older nursing home residents.•The setting in 30-minute sessions and group-based OEP coordinating with physiotherapists may be the most appropriate and effective choice for older nursing home residents.•Use of group-based OEP may benefit the physiological (e.g., reduced frequency of falls) and psychological health (e.g., reduced fear of falling) of older nursing home residents. To explore the effects of a group-based Otago exercise program (OEP) on physical function (mobility, balance, lower limb strength), frailty and health status in older nursing home residents to determine the optimal scheme and format. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to estimate group-based OEP effects. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the influences of the participant and intervention characteristics on the effects. Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this meta-analysis, and the overall quality was relatively high. The results showed that the group-based OEP significantly improved physical function, including mobility [SMD=-0.64, 95% CI (-0.83,-0.45), Z=6.55, p