Activity in GEriatric acute CARe (AGECAR): rationale, design and methods

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• The global population is aging, leading to an increased number of hospitalizations for individuals aged 75 and older.
• Maintaining functional capacity in this demographic is crucial for quality of life and healthcare system sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an intrahospital strength and walk program for patients aged 75 years or older during short hospital stays.
• To determine if this program improves functional capacity and other health outcomes compared to usual care.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (AGECAR) involving patients aged 75+ admitted for short stays (≤14 days).
• Participants were assigned to either usual care or an intervention group performing daily strength and walking exercises.
• Primary outcome: functional capacity (Short Physical Performance Battery, SPPB) and 10-meter walk time pre- and post-hospitalization.

Main Results:

• The study is ongoing; results are not yet available.
• Secondary outcomes include length of hospitalization, pulmonary ventilation (FEV1), oxygen saturation, mortality, falls, and activities of daily living (ADLs) at three months post-discharge.

Conclusions:

• Findings will elucidate the benefits of in-hospital exercise programs for improving functional capacity in elderly patients.
• Results will inform healthcare providers and policymakers on effective interventions for the growing geriatric population.