Abstract
【Background】Decreased physical function and quality of life (QOL) are among the most important problems encountered by older patients with pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, evidence regarding the effects of home-based exercise on pre-dialysis CKD is limited. In this randomized controlled trial, we aim to investigate the effect of a 6-month home-based exercise program on physical function and QOL in older patients with pre-dialysis CKD.
【Method】This single-center, randomized controlled trial will include patients aged ≥65 years with non-hemodialyzed stage 3–5 CKD scheduled to receive CKD education. Patients will be randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group will be assigned to a 6-month home-based exercise program following hospital discharge, which will consist of both aerobic exercise (i.e., walking) and resistance training. Patients in the intervention group will be instructed to walk 3–5 times per week, with the goal of increasing the daily number of steps from 6,000 to 10,000. Resistance training will consist of squats and calf raises performed three times a week, with 1–3 sets of 10–20 repetitions per set. The control group will engage in a similar standard inpatient education program for individuals with CKD, although their education will not include instructions related to home-based exercise. Follow-up counseling will be provided via telephone by a dedicated physical therapist once per month. The primary outcomes are physical function and QOL. Physical function will be assessed based on grip strength, Short Physical Performance Battery results, 6-min walk test results, and the patient’s skeletal muscle mass index. QOL will be measured using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life—Short Form and the five-level EuroQoL five-dimensional questionnaire.
【Discussion】Interventions that combine comprehensive home-based exercise with counseling support may help to maintain motivation among older patients with CKD, thereby increasing rates of exercise participation and adherence. This study will provide new information regarding the effects of exercise therapy on physical function and QOL in older patients with pre-dialysis CKD.
【Trial registration】The trial registration number is UMIN-CTR (UMIN000046881).
