Frailty is the term used to describe a person who may have trouble getting better after being sick or stressed. It is an indicator of health for older adults. Stress can come from feelings, sickness, or a person's surroundings.
Frail people are more likely to:
Be admitted to the hospital
Lose independence
Older adults are at risk for being frail if they:
Have more than one health problem
Smoke
Are depressed
Are underweight
We measure frailty by checking:
Walking speed
Muscle strength
Unplanned weight loss
Physical activity
Fatigue
People who are frail often need help:
Getting dressed
Taking a bath or shower
Going to the bathroom
Walking
It is our goal to check for and treat frailty early.
Treatment for frailty
Physical activity
Daily walking and light-weight training help improve muscle mass, balance, and heart health.
Mental stimulation
Talking to people, reading, and playing games keep the brain sharp.
Treating depression
Recognizing depression early is also important in preventing and treating frailty.
High protein diet
Eating healthy food that's high in protein helps build muscle.