RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Frailty Rehabilitation

This study, called "Frailty Rehabilitation," is for older adults aged 65 and over who are dealing with frailty. Frailty means someone might have several health issues that make them more likely to fall, go to hospital, or need extra care. The study wants to see if a special program can help prevent or slow down frailty. This program includes group exercise, advice on food, and a review of medications. We're comparing this full program to just doing exercise or getting usual care. The main goal is to see if participants become physically stronger and can do more everyday activities. We also want to find out if this program helps people stay out of the hospital.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

McMaster University

Enrolment target

324

Start

02 Sep 2022

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2025

Frailty

What is this study about?

Frailty is a common condition where people gradually become more vulnerable to illness and injury. It's not just about getting older, but about how different health problems can add up, making someone less able to cope with small stresses, like a cold or a new tablet. This can unfortunately lead to falls, hospital stays, and a need for more care.

Because frailty is such an important issue for many older adults, researchers are looking for ways to help people stay well and independent for longer. This study focuses on a specific program designed to help those who are already living with some frailty. The idea is that by combining different approaches – exercise, good nutrition, and making sure medicines are right – people might improve their physical strength and overall well-being.

The study aims to see if this combined program works better than just exercise alone or standard care. By understanding what helps most, the researchers hope to develop new ways to support older adults in the community, helping them to live healthier, more active lives. The results could lead to new ways of managing frailty right here in the UK.

Key takeaways

This study aims to improve health for older adults with frailty.
It tests a program combining exercise, nutrition advice, and medicine review.
Participation involves 4 months of active engagement, possibly at a YMCA.
It could help you gain strength and improve daily activities.
You must be 65 or older, able to walk 25m, and get medical clearance.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who are 65 years old or older and live independently at home. You should be able to walk about 25 metres (that's about the length of two double-decker buses) with or without a walking stick or frame. You should also be at some risk of having trouble with your movement or daily activities, and your doctor would need to give you clearance to take part.

There are also a few things that would mean you can't join. For example, if you're already in a group exercise class, taking daily protein supplements, or are involved in another medication study. If you have severe memory problems where you might struggle to follow simple instructions, or if you have serious heart conditions like unstable angina or heart failure, you wouldn't be able to participate. You would also need to be able to attend sessions regularly and be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 65 years old or older?
Can you walk about 25 metres (with or without help)?
Do you get around easily and don't need help for daily tasks?
Are you fully vaccinated against COVID-19?
Are you able to attend sessions at a YMCA twice a week?
Are you currently taking daily protein supplements or in another exercise program?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, your journey will last for about 4 months. You'll be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a group doing exercise only, a group receiving a full programme (exercise, nutrition advice, and medication review), or a control group which carries on with their usual activities. The full programme and exercise-only groups will likely involve going to your local YMCA up to twice a week for sessions. You'll have some health checks at the beginning and again at the end of the 4 months to see how you've progressed. For some participants, there might be extra checks related to muscle health. The team will keep in touch with you for about 6 months after the main program ends to see if the benefits last.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any study has potential benefits and risks. A potential benefit of this study is that you might improve your physical strength, your ability to do daily activities, and your overall health, especially if you're in the exercise or combined programme groups. There's also the chance you could enjoy the social aspect of group activities. Potential risks are generally low, mainly related to exercise, such as muscle soreness, but the activities will be supervised. It's really important to remember that you are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

McMaster University - St. Peter's Hospital
Verified postcode
Hamilton, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is frailty?

Frailty is when you become more vulnerable to illness due to multiple health issues, making it harder to cope with small stresses.

Will I have to take new medicines?

No, this study doesn't involve new medicines. Instead, it might look at your current medicines to make sure they're ideal for you.

How long will the study last for me?

The main treatment part of the study lasts for 4 months, with check-ups for 6 months afterwards.

Do I have to go to a YMCA?

Yes, if you're in an active group, you'll need to go to a local YMCA up to twice a week for your sessions.

What if I can't speak English well?

Unfortunately, you need to be able to speak and understand English to take part in this specific study.

How to find out more

Sherri Smith

smithsher@hhsc.ca 905 521 2100 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.