Acceptability of physical activity signposting for pre-frail older adults: a qualitative study to inform intervention development

Frailty is a medical condition common in older adults characterised by diminished strength and reduced physiologic function in which individuals are more vulnerable to multiple adverse health outcomes. Pre-frailty is an intermediate stage associated with some minor health outcomes. However, the main risk is progression toward moderate/severe frailty. Evidence shows physical activity interventions to be effective in slowing or modifying the progression of frailty. Researchers at the University of Manchester are developing a behaviour change intervention targeting pre-frail older adults, signposting them to group-based physical activity classes known to be effective for delaying/slowing frailty. This paper reports on the initial intervention development work with key stakeholders exploring the practicality of taking forward this intervention and identifying uncertainties to be explored in the feasibility stage. These included issues around physical activity messaging, the use of the term ‘frail’, identification/recruitment of pre-frail older adults, and the acceptability of behaviour change techniques. There was overwhelming support for a proactive approach to addressing pre-frailty issues. Given that a large proportion of older adults are estimated to be pre-frail, interventions aimed at this group have the potential to support healthy ageing, positively impacting on frailty outcomes and providing wider population health benefits. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-023-04202-8.