Frailty syndrome

A medical condition characterized by decreased physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors

Frailty syndrome
Synonyms	Frailty, Geriatric frailty
Pronounce	/ˈfreɪlti ˈsɪn.droʊm/
Field	Geriatrics, Internal medicine
Symptoms	Muscle weakness, slow walking speed, low physical activity, fatigue, unintentional weight loss
Complications	Increased risk of falls, disability, hospitalization, and death
Onset	Gradual, typically in older adults (age 65+)
Duration	Chronic and progressive
Types	Physical frailty, cognitive frailty
Causes	Aging, chronic diseases (e.g., heart failure, diabetes), malnutrition, inflammation
Risks	Advanced age, sedentary lifestyle, polypharmacy, chronic illness, poor nutrition
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment using criteria such as Fried phenotype or Rockwood frailty index
Differential diagnosis	Sarcopenia, depression, Parkinson's disease, hypothyroidism
Prevention	Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, managing chronic conditions
Treatment	Multidisciplinary approach: physical activity, nutritional support, social support
Medication	No specific medication; treat underlying or contributing conditions
Prognosis	Variable; can be improved with intervention, but may worsen over time without treatment
Frequency	Common in elderly; affects 10–15% of people over age 65
Deaths	Associated with increased mortality risk

A walker in the apartment of a senior woman

Muscle weakness makes it difficult to perform everyday activities, like getting into a bathtub.

Frailty syndrome

Frailty syndrome is a common geriatric condition characterized by a decline in physiological reserves and increased vulnerability to stressors, leading to adverse health outcomes. It is often seen in older adults and is associated with an increased risk of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality.

Characteristics

Frailty syndrome is typically identified by a combination of clinical features, including unintentional weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, slow walking speed, and low physical activity. These characteristics reflect a state of decreased physiological reserve and resilience, making individuals more susceptible to acute health issues.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of frailty syndrome is complex and multifactorial. It involves a combination of age-related changes, chronic diseases, and lifestyle factors. Key mechanisms include:

• Sarcopenia: The loss of muscle mass and strength, which is a central component of frailty.
• Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is often present in frail individuals, contributing to muscle catabolism and other systemic effects.
• Endocrine changes: Alterations in hormone levels, such as decreased testosterone and growth hormone, can affect muscle and bone health.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Poor nutrition can exacerbate muscle loss and weakness.

Diagnosis

Frailty syndrome is diagnosed using various criteria, with the most widely used being the Fried Frailty Phenotype and the Frailty Index. The Fried Frailty Phenotype includes five criteria: unintentional weight loss, exhaustion, weakness, slow walking speed, and low physical activity. A person meeting three or more of these criteria is considered frail.

Management

Management of frailty syndrome involves a multidisciplinary approach aimed at improving physical function and quality of life. Key strategies include:

• Exercise programs: Resistance and aerobic exercises can help improve muscle strength and endurance.
• Nutritional support: Ensuring adequate protein and caloric intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass.
• Medication review: Polypharmacy should be addressed to minimize adverse drug effects.
• Fall prevention: Implementing measures to reduce the risk of falls, such as home safety assessments and balance training.

Prognosis

The prognosis of frailty syndrome varies depending on the severity and the presence of comorbid conditions. Early identification and intervention can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse events.

Related pages

• Sarcopenia
• Geriatrics
• Chronic disease
• Polypharmacy