BACKGROUND: Physical function deficits and frailty are commonly reported in people experiencing homelessness and addiction. Typically, geriatric, or general physical performance measures are employed to evaluate these constructs.

OBJECTIVES AND SETTING: We aimed to investigate the feasibility of a broad test battery to evaluate physical functioning and frailty in a non-geriatric community-based population of people experiencing homelessness and addiction.

DESIGN AND METHODS: Physical function and the presence of frailty was evaluated using combined data from two linked low-threshold exercise pre-post intervention studies (LEAP-I and II).

PARTICIPANTS: Seventy-four participants attending an open-access day-service centre (18 to 65 years) were evaluated. Participants with acute confusion or behavioural issues, or major medical conditions precluding safe participation were excluded.

INTERVENTION: A broad test battery was performed which evaluated physical functioning and frailty.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcome measures included were the Short Physical Performance Battery, Single Leg Stance, Chair Stand Test, 10mWT and 2 Minute Walk Tests, limb circumference, dynamometry, Clinical Frailty Scale, SHARE-Frailty Instrument, Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Short Form-12.

RESULTS: Test completion was 100% for all outcomes except pain rating (81% and 79% for LEAP-I and II, respectively), and balance and walking tests (95% and 93% in LEAP-II). A ceiling effect was detected for the Short Physical Performance Battery.

CONCLUSION: High feasibility of the test batteries was demonstrated. An optimised test battery was proposed based on findings. This has important implications for clinicians working in inclusion health settings.