Social Work-Supported Physiotherapy and Psychosocial Outcomes in Third Age University and Nursing Home Residents

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Social Work-Supported Physiotherapy: Refresher University Group A social work-supported physiotherapy intervention will be implemented face-to-face for six weeks by physiotherapists and social workers at Munzur University's 60+ Refresher University.

Study summary

The aging process is considered not only as a phase characterized by changes in physical functioning, but also as a multidimensional life stage affecting psychosocial well-being, social participation, and quality of life. The World Health Organization's healthy aging approach and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health emphasize that the health status of older adults should be evaluated through the interaction of biological, psychological, and social dimensions. The literature indicates that physical activity and rehabilitation-based interventions not only improve functionality in older individuals but also enhance psychological well-being and social participation; however, the sustainability of these gains is largely determined by social support and environmental factors. In this context, the integration of social work and physiotherapy practices has gained importance in terms of interdisciplinary and holistic intervention models in elderly care.

The aim of this study is to comparatively examine the effects of a social work-supported physiotherapy intervention, implemented among students enrolled in a Third Age University (60+ Refresher University) and older adults living in a nursing home in Turkey, on functionality, psychosocial well-being, and social health levels within the ICF framework. The study is designed as a pretest-posttest controlled quasi-experimental research model. The study population consists of students of Munzur 60+ Refresher University and individuals aged 60 and over residing in a nursing home in Tunceli. Participants selected through stratified random sampling will be assigned to intervention and control groups. A 6-week social work-supported physiotherapy program will be implemented for the intervention groups by physiotherapists and social workers. During the data collection process, physical functioning, psychosocial well-being, and social health-covering the components of the ICF-will be assessed before and after the intervention using standardized measurement tools. The study is expected to provide evidence-based contributions to holistic and interdisciplinary intervention models for older adults.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Demographic and Clinical Characteristics: — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  Participants' demographic data, and presenting complaints at admission, diagnoses, medications used, history of surgical procedures, and comorbid conditions will be assessed.
• Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  Fatigue will be assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale. Participants will respond to the items by rating them on a scale from 1 to 7. The scale consists of nine items, each scored between 1 and 7. Lower scores indicate lower levels of fatigue.
• 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The 6-Minute Walk Test is a standardized performance-based measure used to evaluate functional exercise capacity. It assesses the distance an individual can walk on a flat surface within six minutes. The test reflects submaximal aerobic capacity and is widely used in clinical and rehabilitation settings. A greater distance indicates better functional capacity.
• International Physical Activity Questionnaire — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The International Physical Activity Questionnaire is a widely used self-report tool that assesses the frequency, duration, and intensity of physical activity across different domains (e.g., work, transportation, leisure). It provides estimates of total physical activity levels. A higher total score indicates a higher level of physical activity.
• Multidimensional Quality of Life Scale — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The Multidimensional Quality of Life Scale evaluates individuals' perceived quality of life across multiple domains, including physical, psychological, and social well-being. It provides a comprehensive assessment of overall life satisfaction and functioning. Higher scores indicate a better quality of life.
• Revised Community Participation Questionnaire — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The Revised Community Participation Questionnaire is used to assess individuals' level of participation in social, community, and daily life activities. It evaluates the frequency and diversity of participation, as well as perceived barriers and facilitators to engagement. Higher scores indicate a greater level of participation.
• Depression Anxiety Stress Scale — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale is a self-report instrument designed to measure negative emotional states across three dimensions: depression, anxiety, and stress. It consists of multiple items rated on a Likert scale, providing separate subscale scores for each domain. Higher scores indicate greater levels of depression, anxiety, and stress (i.e., more severe negative emotional states).
• Physical Activity Barriers Scale — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The Physical Activity Barriers Scale assesses perceived obstacles that limit individuals' participation in physical activity. These barriers may include physical, psychological, environmental, and social factors that influence engagement in exercise. Higher scores indicate greater perceived barriers to physical activity.
• Psychological Well-Being Scale for Older Adults — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  This scale measures the psychological well-being of older individuals, including dimensions such as autonomy, purpose in life, emotional balance, and personal growth. It provides insight into the subjective mental health status of elderly populations. Higher scores indicate better psychological well-being.
• Social Health Scale for Older Adults — From enrollment to the end of the 6-week training period
  The Social Health Scale for Older Adults evaluates social functioning, including interpersonal relationships, social roles, social support, and community integration. It reflects the social dimension of health and well-being in later life. Higher scores indicate better social health and functioning.

Trial sites (1)

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