Evaluating a frailty education program implemented through barbershops/salons in Japan: A preliminary study

Although frailty has detrimental physical and psychological effects on elderly people, it is potentially reversible. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of a pilot frailty education program implemented through barbershops/salons in Japan. In January 2018, we selected five barbershops/salons in Japan where customers were educated on frailty, which was classified as “normal,” “prefrail,” and “frail.” We developed a web-based assessment tool to reduce the workload for barbers/stylists. Participants included 45 customers (82% women), with a median (interquartile range) age of 53.0 (47.5–57.5) years, and a mean ± SD BMI of 22.3 ± 2.7. Frailty scores indicated that 35% of participants were normal, 58% were prefrail, and 7% were frail. Frailty status scores reflected no significant differences after the intervention. Customers classified as frail were advised to visit the regional comprehensive support center for further professional frailty assessment. Participants, especially those aged over 65 years, found the web-based assessment difficult to use. In conclusion, a frailty education program implemented through barbershops/salons is possible because barbers/stylists can provide information on and assessment of frailty. Females and highly educated customers are more likely to be interested in participating. Nevertheless, a simple intervention is essential to expand the program nationwide.