Effectiveness of a Community-Based Mobile Rehabilitation Program for Older Adults in Underserved Areas: Functional and Pain Outcomes

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a government-led public health prevention and mobile rehabilitation program implemented in rural and underserved areas of Pingtung County, Taiwan. Using real-world data from 10,369 older adults, the analysis examined functional performance (Short Physical Performance Battery, SPPB) and pain outcomes (Visual Analogue Scale, VAS). Hierarchical logistic regression models revealed that repeated rehabilitation sessions and greater exposure to health education significantly predicted both functional and pain improvement. Functional gains were particularly associated with higher service frequency and lower baseline performance, while pain relief was strongly linked to functional recovery. Regional disparities emerged, with residents in suburban, coastal, and mountainous regions showing lower odds of improvement compared to indigenous communities, underscoring equity challenges in rural rehabilitation delivery. The findings demonstrate that service intensity and structured engagement are critical for effective community-based rehabilitation. Policy implications highlight the need for sustained, culturally responsive, and mobile interventions to reduce health inequities, promote independence, and improve quality of life for aging populations.