Overview and details of the sessions of this conference. Please select a date or location to show only sessions at that day or location. Please select a single session for detailed view (with abstracts and downloads if available).
Protocol for National Pilot Testing of Patient Pathways for Frailty Management in Slovenia: Insights from the Management of (Pre-)Frailty Project
Urška Ličen1, Suzana Pustivšek1, Kaja Kastelic1,2, Rok Poličnik1, Martina Horvat1, Rade Pribaković Brinovec1, Tjaša Knific1
1: National institute of public health, Slovenia; 2: InnoRenew CoE, Andrej Marušič Institute, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia
Background and aim of the study
Frailty is a multidimensional syndrome associated with an increased risk of falls, chronic diseases, and reduced quality of life, representing a critical public health challenge in Slovenia. Currently, standardized patient pathways for early identification and management of frailty are lacking. This study aims to establish a structured approach to the care of frail individuals in Slovenia and evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a newly designed patient pathway.
Methods The study is designed as a randomised controlled trial conducted across eight pilot sites in Slovenia. Following frailty screening using the FIND questionnaire, approximately 300 adults aged 50 years and older will be enrolled and randomised into either a control or an intervention group. Comprehensive assessments of physical performance and nutritional status will be performed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at the six-month follow-up. The intervention group will undergo a structured three-month program delivered by an interdisciplinary team in Health Promotion Centres. The program will address key components of physical frailty management, including physical activity, nutrition, health education, and psychosocial support.
Results The findings will indicate the feasibility and effectiveness of the new pathway in reversing or delaying frailty progression, improving physical function, and enhancing nutritional status compared with standard care.
Conclusions This study will provide evidence to support the integration of structured frailty pathways in primary care and guide the nationwide implementation of evidence-based frailty management strategies.
Funding Co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus and the Republic of Slovenia.
