PREPA PREvention of Loss of Autonomy
This study, called PREPA, is looking for ways to help older people stay active and independent for longer. As more people live to older ages, it's important to find ways to prevent mobility problems that can affect their quality of life. This research focuses on how a combination of exercise and good nutrition can make a difference. The study aims to show if a special exercise programme, along with healthy eating advice, can help people keep their strength and ability to move around easily. Researchers will check on people over time to see if these improvements last for six months and even a year, helping them to live more independently.
At a glance
What is this study about?
As people get older, keeping active and independent can sometimes become more challenging. This study, called PREPA, is focused on helping older adults stay mobile and healthy for as long as possible. Many older people might find everyday tasks, like walking or climbing stairs, a bit harder over time, and this can sometimes lead to falls or a lower quality of life. The aim of this research is to find effective ways to prevent these issues.
The study explores a special programme that includes both supervised exercise and advice on healthy eating. We know that these two things are really important for keeping muscles strong and helping people move around well. The researchers want to see if this combined approach can significantly improve people's ability to move and reduce the risk of losing their independence, which means they can continue to do the things they enjoy.
Ultimately, this research hopes to find a practical and effective way to help older people in their communities. By offering personalised support and activities, the study aims to show that these types of programmes can make a real difference in people's lives, helping them stay active and enjoy a better quality of life for longer, with benefits that last for many months.
Key takeaways
- Focuses on helping older adults stay active and independent.
- Combines supervised exercise with healthy eating advice.
- Aims to improve strength, movement, and reduce fall risk.
- Checks progress over a 12-month period.
- Could help develop better prevention programmes for communities.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you might be considered if you are an older adult who is starting to notice some difficulties with moving around. For example, if you find it hard to carry a heavy shopping basket, get up from a chair without using your arms, or walk up a flight of stairs easily. Other signs might include finding it tricky to walk more than 400 metres without stopping, feeling tired after light activities, or having a fear of falling.
The study is also looking for people who may have had a fall in the last year, have noticed a recent unintended weight loss, or have a lower body weight for their height.
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you can't give your permission to take part, have a severe physical disability that already prevents you from moving, or if doctors expect you to live for less than 12 months. Also, if you have a very high body weight (very high BMI), you would not be able to participate.
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.
- Do you find it hard to carry a heavy shopping bag (around 4.5kg)?
- Do you struggle to get up from a chair without using your arms?
- Do you find it difficult to walk up one flight of stairs?
- Do you sometimes feel very tired after light daily activities?
- Have you had a fall in the past year, or do you worry about falling?
- Have you lost weight without trying to recently (more than 5% in 6 months)?
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you would first have a few checks to see how well you can move around and what your general health is like. Once you're in the programme, you would join a group for supervised exercise sessions. You would also receive advice on healthy eating. The researchers will then check back with you after 6 months, and again after 12 months, to see how you are doing and if the programme has helped you stay active and mobile. We don't have details on the exact duration or frequency of exercise sessions or specific assessments here, but the follow-up period lasts for a year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Service de Médecine Gériatrique Groupement Hospitalier SudVerified postcodePierre-Bénite, France
Common questions
What does 'mobility limitation' mean?
It means you might find it a bit harder to move around easily, for example, walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair.
What kind of exercise will I do?
The study involves a group exercise programme that is supervised by experts, designed to help improve your strength and movement. Specific details would be provided if you join.
Will I have to change what I eat?
You'll receive advice on healthy eating as part of the programme to support your overall health and strength.
How long will I be involved in the study?
The study involves follow-up checks for a full year after the main programme has finished.
Is this a new medicine I have to take?
No, this study is about exercise and nutrition programmes, not new medicines.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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