Revista Tópicos · Oct 30, 2026

Effects of multicomponent exercise on functional capacity in frail and pre-frail older adults: an integrative review

By Mano ASDADL, Gabino RHM

Frailty and pre-frailty increase vulnerability to functional decline in older adults, making it relevant to investigate interventions that promote mobility and independence. This study aimed to analyze the effects of multicomponent exercise on functional capacity in frail and pre-frail older adults. An integrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, PEDro, SciELO, and the Virtual Health Library, considering publications from 2021 to 2026. Primary studies in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, freely available in full text, with populations characterized as frail or pre-frail and statistical analyses of functional outcomes, were included. The searches identified 487 records, and the final sample comprised 13 articles. The results indicated benefits in physical performance, mobility, balance, and muscle strength, as well as reductions in frailty indicators in some studies. However, improvements were not uniform across outcomes, and gains on physical tests were not always accompanied by greater independence in daily activities. Discontinuation of training was associated with partial loss of benefits in one of the studies. It was concluded that multicomponent exercise has the potential to improve functional capacity in this population, with a need for individualization, progression, and continuity of practice. The heterogeneity of the protocols and sample limitations restricted the definition of an ideal program and the generalizability of the results.

doi.org/10.70773/revistatopicos/793313369 Open access Interventions