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Multicomponent intervention to prevent mobility disability in frail older adults: randomised controlled trial
Roberto Bernabei1,2, Francesco Landi1,2, Riccardo Calvani1
1Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|May 11, 2022
Summary
A multicomponent intervention combining physical activity and nutritional counseling reduced mobility disability in frail, older adults. This approach may help preserve mobility in vulnerable elderly populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Physical frailty and sarcopenia are prevalent conditions in older adults, increasing the risk of mobility disability.
- Maintaining mobility is crucial for independence and quality of life in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if a multicomponent intervention, including technology-supported physical activity and nutritional counseling, can prevent mobility disability in older adults with physical frailty and sarcopenia.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 1519 participants (aged 70+) with physical frailty and sarcopenia across 16 European sites.
- The intervention group received tailored physical activity and nutritional counseling, while the control group received healthy aging education.
- Primary outcome was mobility disability, assessed over up to 36 months.
Main Results:
- The multicomponent intervention significantly reduced mobility disability incidence in participants with Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores of 3-7 (46.8% vs 52.7%).
- Improvements were observed in SPPB scores, handgrip strength (in women), and appendicular lean mass (in women) in the intervention group.
- No significant reduction in mobility disability was observed in participants with higher baseline SPPB scores (8-9).
Conclusions:
- A multicomponent intervention effectively reduces mobility disability in older adults with physical frailty and sarcopenia and lower functional status (SPPB 3-7).
- Targeting physical frailty and sarcopenia is a viable strategy to preserve mobility in vulnerable older individuals.
