Effects of a Community-Based Multicomponent Exercise Program on Frailty, Mobility, Strength, and Balance Among Older Adults in East Lombok

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome that increases vulnerability to falls, disability, hospitalization, and loss of independence, particularly among older adults living in rural and low-resource settings. Preventive strategies that are feasible, community-oriented, and clinically relevant are essential to support healthy aging. Aim(s) (including purpose setting): This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a community-based multicomponent therapeutic exercise model on frailty status and functional performance among older adults in East Lombok, Indonesia, as a preventive approach against frailty progression. Material and methods: A pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was conducted involving 20 community-dwelling older adults recruited through purposive sampling at Rumah Senja, East Lombok. Frailty status was assessed using the Indonesian version of the FRAIL scale (Ina-FRAIL). Functional performance was evaluated using handgrip strength, the Timed Up and Go test, and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand test. Participants completed a structured multicomponent exercise program consisting of strength, balance, aerobic, and functional training, delivered three times per week over a three-month period. Result: Following the intervention, the proportion of participants classified as robust increased from 30% to 65%. Changes in Ina-FRAIL scores did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.090); however, a large effect size was observed (r = 0.69), indicating a clinically meaningful improvement. Functional performance improved significantly, with TUG time decreasing by 2.2 seconds (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.24) and FTSTS time decreasing by 4.4 seconds (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.16). Handgrip strength increased by 1.1 kg but was not statistically significant (p = 0.102), although a moderate effect size was identified (r = 0.37). Conclusions: A community-based multicomponent therapeutic exercise program demonstrates clinically meaningful benefits in preventing frailty progression and improving functional capacity among older adults in rural communities, supporting its integration into community-based physiotherapy and healthy aging programs.