The landscape of modern medicine is ever-evolving, especially when it comes to the preparation of older adults for major elective surgeries. A significant study conducted by Wang, KY., Nguyen, C.Y., and Xu, K. dives deep into the intricacies of prehabilitation and the barriers and facilitators that shape patient participation. Utilizing the capability, opportunity, motivation-behavior model, this research aims to unveil the complexities surrounding older adults’ engagement in prehabilitation programs.
Prehabilitation, a proactive approach to enhance a patient’s physical and psychological condition prior to surgery, is integral to improving surgical outcomes. Despite its potential benefits, many older patients are hampered by multiple factors that impede their full participation in such programs. This study meticulously explores these barriers, resonating deeply with the growing community of healthcare providers eager to enhance preoperative care.
The qualitative nature of this research provides profound insights into the lived experiences of older adults facing significant elective surgeries. Through deeply engaging interviews and focus groups, the researchers have captured the nuanced perspectives of these patients. They uncovered that individual motivation plays a pivotal role in determining whether older patients embrace prehabilitation programs or shy away from them. This correlation raises critical questions about how healthcare systems communicate the importance of such programs to older adults.
Moreover, the opportunity aspect of the model sheds light on the systemic barriers that may exist. Factors such as limited access to appropriate facilities, lack of tailored programs for older adults, and insufficient healthcare provider recommendations all contribute to decreased participation. In essence, even when motivation exists, the absence of supportive environments may stifle the attempts of these individuals to engage fully in their prehabilitation journey.
The study also examines capability, which encompasses the physical and mental prerequisites required for participation. Many older adults face health challenges that may diminish their capacity to engage in vigorous prehabilitation activities. This aspect is particularly poignant as it highlights the need for healthcare systems to adapt and offer more customized prehabilitation strategies to accommodate diverse health profiles. The researchers advocate for a shift in paradigms where prehabilitation isn’t perceived as a one-size-fits-all model but rather tailored to suit individual patient needs.
Significantly, the research urges healthcare professionals to approach older patients with empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Communication is emphasized as a crucial factor in motivating participation; providers are encouraged to disseminate information clearly and compassionately. This entails not only explaining the benefits of prehabilitation but also actively involving patients in the decision-making process regarding their care plans.
Furthermore, the study reveals that social support plays a crucial role in fostering engagement in prehabilitation. Family members, caregivers, and peers can significantly influence the motivation and opportunity aspects of the model. Encouraging a supportive network around these patients may bridge gaps in capability, ultimately leading to better outcomes. Engaging the patient’s family or social circle could facilitate discussions about prehabilitation, enabling patients to feel less isolated in their surgical journeys.
For the healthcare system, the findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive training for providers regarding the specific needs of older patients. A deeper understanding of the barriers these individuals may face allows healthcare professionals to employ more effective strategies in promoting prehabilitation programs. This could lead to the establishment of community-led initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility, such as local exercise classes tailored for seniors or workshops about managing health preoperatively.
Equally striking is the notion that addressing psychological barriers is just as crucial as focusing on physical preparedness. Anxiety concerning surgery, feelings of inadequacy about participating in physical tasks, and concerns about recovery can overshadow the motivation to engage in prehabilitation activities. The researchers highlight the importance of psychological resilience and suggest interventions that focus on mental health support, potentially utilizing cognitive-behavioral approaches to mitigate pre-surgery anxiety.
Overall, this study presents a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted barriers and facilitators influencing older adults’ participation in prehabilitation. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, this research emphasizes the importance of adaptability, innovation, and compassion within medical practices. The insights gathered from this study could very well influence policy decisions, resource allocation, and patient education strategies in the future.
Looking towards practical implementations, healthcare institutions are called upon to reassess their prehabilitation offerings for older adults. Stakeholders should actively engage with patients to develop bespoke programs that cater to their unique contexts, thus enhancing the likelihood of participation. In doing so, not only do they stand to improve surgical outcomes, but they also elevate the standard of care provided to this vulnerable demographic.
In conclusion, Wang, KY., Nguyen, C.Y., and Xu, K.’s research illuminates a critical aspect of preoperative care for older adults. By applying the capability, opportunity, motivation-behavior model, this study offers a robust framework for understanding the challenges that these patients face. It ultimately lays the groundwork for future explorations and innovations that aim to broaden access to prehabilitation, ensuring that older adults can approach major elective surgeries with confidence and support.
Subject of Research: Barriers and facilitators to prehabilitation participation among older adults undergoing major elective surgery.
Article Title: Barriers and facilitators to prehabilitation participation among older adults undergoing major elective surgery: a qualitative study using the capability, opportunity, motivation – behavior model.
Article References:
Wang, KY., Nguyen, C.Y., Xu, K. et al. Barriers and facilitators to prehabilitation participation among older adults undergoing major elective surgery: a qualitative study using the capability, opportunity, motivation – behavior model.
BMC Geriatr (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-026-07101-w
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12877-026-07101-w
Keywords: Prehabilitation, older adults, elective surgery, barriers, facilitators, capability, opportunity, motivation.
