Clinical Research Directory

Social Work-Supported Physiotherapy and Psychosocial Outcomes in Third Age University and Nursing Home Residents

Sponsor: Munzur University

Summary

The aging process is considered not only as a phase characterized by changes in physical functioning, but also as a multidimensional life stage affecting psychosocial well-being, social participation, and quality of life. The World Health Organization's healthy aging approach and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health emphasize that the health status of older adults should be evaluated through the interaction of biological, psychological, and social dimensions. The literature indicates that physical activity and rehabilitation-based interventions not only improve functionality in older individuals but also enhance psychological well-being and social participation; however, the sustainability of these gains is largely determined by social support and environmental factors. In this context, the integration of social work and physiotherapy practices has gained importance in terms of interdisciplinary and holistic intervention models in elderly care. The aim of this study is to comparatively examine the effects of a social work-supported physiotherapy intervention, implemented among students enrolled in a Third Age University (60+ Refresher University) and older adults living in a nursing home in Turkey, on functionality, psychosocial well-being, and social health levels within the ICF framework. The study is designed as a pretest-posttest controlled quasi-experimental research model. The study population consists of students of Munzur 60+ Refresher University and individuals aged 60 and over residing in a nursing home in Tunceli. Participants selected through stratified random sampling will be assigned to intervention and control groups. A 6-week social work-supported physiotherapy program will be implemented for the intervention groups by physiotherapists and social workers. During the data collection process, physical functioning, psychosocial well-being, and social health-covering the components of the ICF-will be assessed before and after the intervention using standardized measurement tools. The study is expected to provide evidence-based contributions to holistic and interdisciplinary intervention models for older adults.

Official title: Comparison of the Effects of a Social Work-Supported Physiotherapy Intervention on Psychosocial Well-Being and Social Health Levels Within the ICF Framework Among Third Age University Students and Nursing Home Residents

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