Healthcare professionals' perspectives on optimising hip fracture rehabilitation: Insights from the ‘Rehabilitation for Life' intervention

• Structured rehabilitation programs provide a framework for delivering patient-centered care while allowing for individualized adaptations. • Healthcare centers play a transformative role by fostering patient engagement, reducing isolation, and enhancing rehabilitation outcomes. • Social support within rehabilitation settings strengthens both psychological well-being and patient motivation. • Balancing strength training and functional recovery is crucial for restoring independence in hip fracture rehabilitation. • An integrated rehabilitation approach that combines physical recovery with patient-centered strategies optimizes long-term outcomes. Hip fractures in older adults significantly affect functionality, mortality, and healthcare costs. Effective rehabilitation is crucial for restoring mobility and quality of life. However, fragmented rehabilitation processes and discrepancies between patient needs and healthcare services create challenges. This study explores healthcare professionals' experiences with the intervention Rehabilitation for Life, concentrating on optimising rehabilitation strategies for older adults with hip fractures. This qualitative study included 16 experienced nurses and physiotherapists from hospitals and municipalities. Data were collected through semi-structured focus group interviews guided by an interview protocol. Thematic analysis was conducted using Malterud’s systematic text condensation methodology to identify key themes in participants' responses. The analysis revealed three central themes: (1) the importance of structured rehabilitation plans in enhancing outcomes, (2) the transformative role of healthcare centres in providing support and motivation, and (3) the challenge of balancing strength and functionality in patient-centred rehabilitation. These insights specifically relate to the Rehabilitation for Life intervention, demonstrating its impact on rehabilitation strategies. This study highlights the importance of well-structured rehabilitation plans, the pivotal role of healthcare centres, and the necessity of balancing strength training with functional recovery in hip fracture rehabilitation. The findings indicate that a common understanding of rehabilitation processes among healthcare professionals is vital for optimising patient outcomes. Prioritising interdisciplinary collaboration, early intervention, and ongoing professional development is essential for enhancing the quality of rehabilitation. Implementing structured yet adaptable rehabilitation programmes within healthcare centres may increase adherence, bolster patient motivation, and support overall recovery.