Aging corresponds to the set of biological, physiological, and functional changes associated with advancing age. It is accompanied by a progressive reduction in homeostatic reserves and a decreased ability to respond to internal or external stressors.
Frailty is a geriatric syndrome defined by increased vulnerability resulting from a multisystem decline in physiological reserves. It represents an intermediate state between successful aging and dependency. The most commonly used clinical criteria (Fried model) include :
The presence of at least three criteria defines frailty, while one or two criteria indicate a pre-frailty state.
10-20%
After the age of 80
Marked increase
It is associated with a higher risk of falls, hospitalizations, loss of independence, and mortality.
It relies on an individualized, multidisciplinary approach aimed
at slowing the progression of the syndrome and preventing loss of autonomy.
Evidence-based interventions include:
resistance, endurance,
and balance exercises
Adequate protein intake,
vitamin D and micronutrient
supplementation if needed
Chronic
To reduce isolation
and depression
Thus, frailty represents a major public health challenge in the context of global population aging and constitutes a priority target for prevention strategies and clinical research.
