Objectives The current systematic review aims to examine the efect of mind–body exercise on diferent memory types in the elderly population. Methods Four literature databases (Pubmed, Cochrane library, Embase and Sinomed) were searched from inception to March 19, 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efect of mind–body exercise on memory in older adults were included. The assessment of risk of bias for the included studies and data synthesis were conducted using the software of review manager 5.3 based on the Cochrane handbook. Results Twelve eligible RCTs with a total 1051 participants were identifed that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Meta-analysis in elderly adults without known neurological diseases showed mind–body exercise intervention had a large efect on general memory (SMD=1.24, p=0.005), a moderate efect on short-term memory (SMD=0.51, p=0.02) and long-term memory (SMD=0.78, p<0.001), a small efect on working memory (SMD=0.28, p=0.009), and a moderate efect on episodic memory (SMD=0.74, p<0.001) and semantic memory (SMD=0.59, p=0.003) compared to no specifc exercise intervention. Similar results were also found in elderly adults with known neurological diseases, showing a moderate efect on general memory (SMD=0.56, p<0.001), short-term memory (SMD=0.68, p=0.01), and long-term memory (SMD=0.80, p=0.003); a small efect on working memory (SMD=0.46, p<0.001); and a large efect on episodic memory (SMD=0.91, p<0.001). Conclusion Compared with no specifc exercise, mind–body exercise enhances memory in older adults. However, larger, more robust trials with longer follow-up periods and standardized neuropsychological outcome measures are needed before more defnitive conclusions can be drawn.