Background Frailty is common in older adults and is associated with increased health and social care use (Walsh, Fogg, Harris, et al. Age Ageing. 2023;52(5):afad058). Over 80% of care home residents were aged 65 years and over in a recent census (Office for National Statistics. Older people living in care homes in 2021 and changes since 2011. 2023). People living in care homes are likely to be living with higher levels of frailty and therefore merit particular attention to their care needs (NHS England. Living with frailty [internet]). Benefits of exercise are widely known (NHS. Benefits of exercise. [internet]), and regular exercise has been shown to be beneficial for older adults with frailty (Liu, Fielding. Clin Geriatr Med. 2011;27(1):101–10).

Aim To understand the impact of regular exercise on the progression of frailty.

Method The hospice identified five local care homes based on the number of ambulance call outs and approached them to be part of the project. The hospice recruited three exercise prescribers to deliver weekly exercise groups within the care homes. Objective measures of timed-up and go, functional reach, and grip strength were collected at intervals throughout the 12-month programme to detect changes in mobility, balance and muscle power within attendees. Surveys regarding the project were completed by residents, care home staff and exercise prescribers.

Results There were challenges in getting care home staff and care home residents to engage with exercise groups regularly. One care home was removed from the project due to lack of engagement from residents. To date, there have been 48 unique attendees across the project. Regular attendance at exercise groups maintained mobility levels, balance, and muscle power. Survey data reported positive impacts on working relationships, as well as higher feelings of wellbeing related to group participation.

Conclusion Exercise is an effective method of reducing frailty progression, and care homes are well-positioned to support residents by implementing exercise groups. Hospices have the skillsets to teach these groups, but the staff resources are limited. There is potential to empower care home staff by educating them in exercise delivery.