Healthy Ageing Research Group (HARG) / Research themes / Frailty and rehabilitation

Frailty and rehabilitation

The population is ageing rapidly, with the oldest age groups (85+) experiencing particularly rapid growth. While a longer life can offer many opportunities for older individuals – especially when they enjoy good health, have strong social networks and live in supportive environments – it also presents challenges.

This demographic shift means that more older adults are likely to need support and rehabilitation to manage complex conditions. They may also experience frailty, a condition characterised by the gradual loss of multiple body systems’ reserves, increasing the risk of significant deterioration from minor events.

The progression of frailty can lead to adverse outcomes such as disability, frequent hospital admissions, and a growing demand for long-term social care support. Research on frailty and rehabilitation for older adults is critical for improving health outcomes and quality of life.

Working with key local and national stakeholders, HARG members focus on key research areas including:

  • frailty assessment and management;
  • the interaction between frailty and common issues and conditions such as falls, and dementia;
  • developing and exploring the use of digital health technologies, such as gamified telerehabilitation (exergames), apps, virtual reality interventions, wearables and remote monitoring, to support rehabilitation programmes and the management of frailty;
  • the effectiveness and accessibility of technologies for older adults, particularly in underserved areas;
  • how socioeconomic status, living conditions and social support networks influence frailty and the success of rehabilitation efforts;
  • the role of community-based interventions and policies in supporting older adults with frailty and long-term conditions;
  • developing resources and interventions to support caregivers, including training programmes, respite care and mental health services.

Addressing these research areas will provide a comprehensive understanding of frailty, rehabilitation and long-term conditions in older adults, leading to improved care strategies and better quality of life for this growing population.

Current projects

Our projects relating to physical activity and exercise are funded through and conducted via the NIHR Greater Manchester Applied Research Collaboration Healthy Ageing Theme.

The University of Manchester