Frailty Prevention Care Management Program (FPCMP) on Frailty and Health Function in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Quasi-Experimental Trial Protocol

Abstract

Background: Frailty often results from deteriorating muscle strength and decreased physical function in older adults. Frailty includes not only physical components, but also psychological and social aspects. Previous research has shown that exercise programs, especially resistance exercises combined with nutritional care, can reduce frailty. Objectives: This study aimed to develop a Frailty Prevention Care Management Program that prevents frailty and improves physical activity and nutrition compared to usual care for community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A quasi-experimental and single-blinded trial with a non-equivalent control group using a before-after design will be performed involving Frailty Prevention Care Management Program interventions, taking place both at the communities. Participants will be divided into two different intervention groups and two control groups. All groups will be assessed three times: at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 3 months post intervention. A total of 72 community-dwelling older adults are recruited. This intervention includes an exercise program (design TRX program) and nutritional education. The control group will not receive any specific exercise training. The primary outcome shall comprise the effect of the Frailty Prevention Care Management Program on frailty using the Taiwanese version of the Tilburg frailty indicator. Secondary outcomes include the effect of physical activity using the Senior Fitness Test and nutrition measures using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form. A generalized estimating equation is constructed to analyze the effects of the intervention. Conclusions: This trial will provide vital information to guide interventions to improve outcomes (frailty, physical activity, and nutrition) and inform the integration of nutrition and TRX exercises in community-dwelling older adults.