Evaluation of a healthy ageing intervention for frail older people living in the community

Aim: To evaluate a healthy ageing intervention in the form of a program of physical and social activity for frail older people living in the community. Methods: New members of an activity program were surveyed before and after attending the program and interviewed face-to-face prior to the program, immediately after the program and through a telephone interview two months following the program. Results: Program participants reported better health, social function and mental well-being; greater engagement in household and leisure activities; and increased enjoyment and confidence through participating in the program. Some participants could not attend the whole program due to poor health or difficulties securing transport. Conclusion: The results suggest the program was successful in enhancing the health and well-being of those community-dwelling older adults who stayed in the program. However, the high drop-out rate suggests that flexibility is required in community-based healthy ageing programs.