Effects of Remote Exercise on Physical Function in Pre-Frail Older Adults

Effects of Remote Exercise on Physical Function in Pre-Frail Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to compare the effects of remote versus in-person exercise interventions on physical function, balance, gait stability, and fall efficacy in pre-frail older adults aged 65 years and above. Participants are randomly assigned to either a remote exercise group, an in-person exercise group, or a control group. The exercise intervention includes balance, strength, and gait training conducted twice weekly for eight weeks. The control group receives educational materials on physical activity. The primary outcome measures include assessments of balance, lower limb strength, gait ability, and fall efficacy. This study seeks to determine if remote exercise is as effective as in-person exercise in enhancing physical function in pre-frail older adults, potentially providing a feasible alternative to traditional in-person programs and addressing barriers such as limited mobility and access to exercise facilities.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 65 years or older
• Classified as pre-frail based on Fried's frailty criteria (meeting at least two out of five specified indicators)
• Experienced a fall in the preceding six months or have impaired gait and balance (TUG ≥ 13.5 seconds, BBS ≤ 45)
• Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of 24 or higher
• Demonstrate the physical capacity to engage in the remote exercise (e.g., ability to stand from a seated position and walk short distances)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurological or musculoskeletal conditions that impede physical activity
• Recent history of severe cardiovascular disease (within the past three months)
• Inability to commit to continuous participation throughout the study period
• Any other medical condition that might interfere with the intervention or pose a risk to the participant