Overview
This three-year study aims to investigate gender differences in social frailty and evaluate the effects of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based conversational social-support intervention among older adults with chronic heart failure (CHF).
The study plans to enroll 300-500 adults aged 60 years or older from four Chang Gung Memorial Hospital branches in Taiwan.
In the first phase, researchers will assess participants' clinical characteristics, sarcopenia, physical activity, and physical, psychological, and social frailty. The study will examine gender differences and identify factors associated with social frailty.
In the second phase, 174 participants are planned to be assigned to three groups: an AI-based conversational social-support group, a community social participation group, and a control group. The AI group will engage in daily 15-30-minute app-based conversations, while the community group will be encouraged to participate in regular social activities. The control group will maintain routine activities.
The third phase will assess longer-term changes in social frailty, emotional well-being, physical activity, and health outcomes, with follow-up assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the intervention.
Description
This study combines an initial cross-sectional assessment with an embedded intervention trial and longitudinal follow-up.
Phase 1: Baseline assessment
Clinical information and standardized assessments will be collected to examine gender differences in sarcopenia, physical activity, and multidimensional frailty among older adults with chronic heart failure. Structural equation modeling will be used to investigate factors and pathways associated with social frailty.
Phase 2: Intervention
The protocol plans to enroll 174 participants in three groups of 58:
- AI-Based Conversational Social-Support Intervention: Participants will be instructed to use an AI-based conversational application for 15-30 minutes daily. The intervention includes conversational support and emotional monitoring. Training, language support, and tablets or internet connectivity will be provided when needed.
- Community Social Participation: Participants will be encouraged to attend regular social activities to enhance social interaction, with continued care and telephone follow-up.
- Control: Participants will maintain their routine activities.
Clinical and questionnaire-based assessments will be conducted before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in emotional state, physical activity, social frailty, and other health outcomes.
Phase 3: Longitudinal follow-up
Follow-up assessments are planned at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the intervention to examine the sustainability of intervention effects and potential gender differences. Assessments include standardized questionnaires and relevant clinical measures.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Participants aged 60 years or older.
- Diagnosis of chronic heart failure (CHF).
- Ability to communicate effectively in Mandarin or Taiwanese.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Unstable heart failure.
- Severe comorbidities, such as end-stage renal disease, advanced hepatic dysfunction, or terminal malignancies.
- Severe cognitive deficits that impede the ability to provide informed consent or participate in study interventions.
- Uncorrected visual or hearing impairments that hinder effective communication or interaction with the AI-based conversational social-support intervention.
- Active psychiatric conditions, including major depression or psychosis, that could interfere with study participation or adherence.
