Abstract

Background: Prolonged inactivity during acute hospitalisation is associated with physical decline and increased dependency among older adults. This study evaluated the feasibility of the Enhanced Activity for Safe Exercise-well (EASEwell) programme, an inpatient exercise intervention designed to maintain physical activity in hospitalised older adults. The programme comprised 12 supervised exercises, ranging from seated movements to functional tasks such as chair transfers and walking.

Methods: Older adults admitted for acute illness who were able to sit and walk independently, communicate with the therapist, and follow two-step commands were recruited. A physiotherapist supervised participants during the EASEwell programme. Feasibility was assessed by exercise adherence, completeness of outcome measurements, perceptions of EASEwell, and adverse events.

Results: Twenty participants (mean age 82 years; 65% female) were enrolled. The attendance rate was 88%, with a mean exercise duration of 3 ± 2 days. Most participants (96%) completed all exercise components and prescribed repetitions. Both participants and physiotherapists provided positive feedback, and no serious adverse events occurred.

Conclusion: The EASEwell programme was found to be feasible, well-received, and safe among hospitalised older adults.