Robot-Assisted Physical Exercise in Acutely Hospitalised Geriatric Patients: Insights From the ROBUST RCT–A Case Report

Introduction and Purpose: Hospitalised older patients are at high risk of functional decline due to prolonged inactivity. Gerontechnology, including robot-assisted physical exercise, may support early mobilisation, but its use in acute hospital settings remains underexplored. This case report provides an in-depth insight into robot-assisted physical exercise in an older patient admitted to a geriatric department, reflecting the clinical setting of geriatric care during acute hospitalisation and highlighting real-world challenges related to engagement and adherence. Method and Materials: As part of an ongoing randomised controlled trial (RCT), this case report includes a 98-year-old woman randomised to active robot-assisted physical exercise. The intervention was offered twice daily during hospital stay. A structured, semi-guided interview was conducted at discharge to explore the patient’s experiences, motivation, and perceived impact of the exercise. This report presents a detailed description of the intervention including exercise, progression, adherence and the patient’s experience. Results: The patient described the exercise as engaging, mood-lifting, and beneficial. However, fatigue impacted adherence, resulting in 50% adherence. Functionally, the patient demonstrated increased independence, reflected by an improvement in Barthel Index (0–100, higher scores indicate greater independence) from 57 at admission to 69 at discharge. Chair stand test performance did not change. Conclusion: Based on this single case, robot-assisted physical exercise was positively perceived, even by a frail, hospitalised older patient. However, fluctuating energy levels highlight the need for flexible, patient-centred strategies. This case provides early insight into feasibility, motivation, and real-world adherence, contributing to understanding how robotic rehabilitation may support early mobilisation. Further evidence from the ongoing RCT will clarify its effectiveness in improving outcomes in this population. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05782855.