Improving mobility in older adults through home-based strength training

PCORI-HA-2021C3-25041 Comparative Effectiveness of Brief Strength and Balance Exercises and Standard Home-Based Group Exercise for Primary Care Patients With Mobility Disability

NA · Milton S. Hershey Medical Center · NCT05725564

This study is testing whether a new home-based strength training program can help older adults who have trouble walking or climbing stairs feel more mobile compared to a standard exercise program.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment620 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMilton S. Hershey Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Hershey, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT05725564 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to compare the effectiveness of a brief home-based strength training program called FAST with a standard program known as BAND TOGETHER, which includes strength, balance, and aerobic exercises. The study focuses on older adults who experience difficulty walking or climbing stairs, a common issue that significantly impacts their quality of life. By encouraging participants to set performance goals and providing feedback, the researchers hope to enhance adherence and improve leg function. The ultimate goal is to create a strength training program that older adults can consistently engage in to improve their mobility.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 65 and above who report difficulty walking a quarter of a mile and have access to the internet.

Not a fit: Patients experiencing chest pain, cognitive impairment, or those involved in other physical activity research may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance the mobility and quality of life for older adults facing walking difficulties.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that strength training can improve mobility in older adults, but the specific approach of a brief, goal-oriented program like FAST is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age greater than or equal to 65
* Self reported difficulty or inability to walk 1/4/ mile
* Access to the Internet
* Covid vaccination

Exclusion Criteria:

* Chest pain on the PAR-Q
* Participating in another research project involving physical activity, falls or weight loss
* Planning to move or have surgery in the next 12 months
* Cognitive impairment

Where this trial is running

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Walking, Difficulty, Mobility Limitation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.