Frailty and innovative participatory rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Rehabilitation Medicine
• Geriatric care and rehabilitation strategies
• Evidence-based practice in aging research

Background:

• Older adults with multimorbidity and frailty present unique rehabilitation challenges.
• Traditional rehabilitation models may not fully address the complex needs of this population.
• Growing evidence supports tailored approaches for improved functional outcomes.

Approach:

• This mini-review synthesizes the latest evidence on rehabilitation opportunities.
• Focuses on person-centered and contextualized rehabilitation strategies.
• Highlights alignment with the bio-psycho-social model and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Key Points:

• Person-centered rehabilitation benefits mobility and significantly improves social participation in older adults.
• Individualized rehabilitation goals are collaboratively set at the activity and participation levels.
• The bio-psycho-social model guides modern rehabilitation, emphasizing holistic patient care.

Conclusions:

• Rehabilitation for older adults with multimorbidity and frailty should be personalized and context-specific.
• Further research is needed to develop and validate objective outcome measures for activity and participation.
• Implementing ICF-aligned, person-centered approaches can optimize functional independence and quality of life.