Multimodal Intervention for Older Adults After an Earthquake

This randomized controlled trial was designed to address the health priorities of older adults (≥65 years) living in temporary container housing following the devastating Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in February 2023. Recognizing the unique vulnerabilities of elderly individuals in post-disaster environments - such as frailty, physical inactivity, limited access to care, and psychosocial distress - the study implemented a multidisciplinary, holistic intervention targeting their comprehensive health needs. Participants were allocated into two groups (intervention and control) based on frailty stratification using the Edmonton Frailty Scale and randomized using a sealed-envelope method. The intervention group received a 12-week individualized health management program, tailored to physical, mental, and nutritional domains. The program was developed and delivered by a multidisciplinary team including physiotherapists, geriatric nurses, nutritionists, and mental health professionals. The intervention included: Physical health sessions: individualized exercise plans for posture correction, mobility, strength, and balance. Nutritional counseling: personalized dietary education based on individual risk factors and nutritional deficiencies. Mental health support: education on coping mechanisms, peer group interaction, and anxiety-reducing strategies. Medication education: safe drug use training, including awareness of polypharmacy and drug-food interactions. All sessions were conducted in person within the container housing area, considering participants' mobility limitations. Adherence was monitored throughout the study. The control group underwent only baseline and 12-week follow-up assessments and received no active intervention during the trial period. This trial aims to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of a holistic health model in disaster-stricken elderly populations. The approach moves beyond disease management, incorporating lifestyle reorganization and psychosocial support. The findings are intended to contribute to the creation of post-disaster rehabilitation guidelines and policies for geriatric populations in similar emergency settings.