Multimodal Intervention for Older Adults Residing in Temporary Housing After an Earthquake: A Randomized Controlled Study

This randomized controlled study was conducted among older adults (≥65 years) living in temporary container housing in Kahramanmaraş after the February 2023 earthquakes. A total of 60 participants meeting inclusion criteria were recruited and randomized into two groups: an intervention group (n=30) and a control group (n=30). Randomization was performed using a sealed envelope method following minimization based on frailty scores (Edmonton Frailty Scale ≥4). The intervention group received a 12-week health management program designed with a holistic approach, addressing physical, mental, and nutritional health needs. Individualized exercise prescriptions (balance, strength, range of motion, posture correction), lifestyle counseling, nutrition education, and medication use training were provided under professional supervision. The control group received no active intervention and only underwent assessments at baseline and at the end of the study. Measurements were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Primary assessments included frailty status (Edmonton Frailty Scale), balance and mobility (Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, Functional Reach Test, Gyko postural sway analysis), physical activity level (PASE questionnaire), physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery), muscle strength (hand dynamometer, pinch meter, digital force measurement), posture (PostureScreen app), and nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment, anthropometric measures). Cognitive and mental health were evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Geriatric Anxiety Scale. Quality of life was assessed with the Nottingham Health Profile. The study aims to determine whether a structured, holistic health management plan can improve balance, physical activity, and overall health outcomes compared with control in older adults living in post-disaster temporary housing. Findings are expected to inform rehabilitation and preventive health strategies for vulnerable elderly populations in disaster settings.