Observatory of the Older Person: A Cohort of Older Adults Living in Nursing Homes

Observatory of the Older Person: A Cohort of Older Adults Living in Nursing Homes in Porto Metropolitan Area

This cohort of older adults residing in nursing homes in Porto Metropolitan Area aims to monitor the health, intrinsic capacity and functional capacity over time. Through systematic data collection and analysis, the observatory provides valuable insights into aging, frailty, and long-term care needs, informing policies and interventions to enhance older adults care. This cohort aims to recruit 400 individuals aged 65 years or more at baseline.All participants will be invited for a re-assessment every year, while the overall duration is planned for four years.

The Observatory of the Older Person is a cohort study designed to enhance understanding of the aging process among older adults in nursing homes. The study aims to generate insights into the determinants of functional and intrinsic capacity, identify factors influencing independence, and develop targeted interventions to improve well-being in this population.

Specifically, it aims:

• To provide a comprehensive characterization of the health profiles across nursing home population. This will include demographic, clinical, and functional assessments, as well as an exploration of variations in health conditions, nutritional status, cognitive function, and psychosocial well-being among residents.
• to examine the trajectories of functional and intrinsic capacity over time by tracking changes in mobility, strength, balance, cognitive function, psychological resilience, and physiological health.
• To determine the key factors contributing to the loss of independence in basic activities of daily living (ADLs). Physical, cognitive, psychological, and social determinants will be analyzed to identify their role in maintaining or reducing autonomy among nursing home residents.
• To investigate the risk factors associated with falls in nursing home residents. Physical frailty, cognitive impairment, polypharmacy, and environmental hazards will be examined to determine their contribution to fall risk. Additionally, the consequences of falls, including injuries, hospitalizations, and fear of falling, will be assessed to evaluated.
• To implement and assess the impact of exercise interventions designed to mitigate or reverse frailty. Tailored programs focusing on strength and endurance will be evaluated for their effectiveness in improving frailty status, reducing fall risk, and promoting autonomy among older adults.

By addressing these objectives, this study will contribute to evidence-based strategies for improving health, independence, and quality of life in nursing home residents.All participants will be invited for a re-assessment every year, while the overall duration is planned for four years. Findings may also inform policies and best practices to enhance care models within long-term care facilities.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Older adults aged 65 or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any contraindication that could affect physical exercise performance or testing procedures, including terminal illness, uncontrolled disease, or other unstable medical condition;
• bone fracture in the past 3 months;
• Iinability to understand and follow the instructions of physical tests