[Prevention of disability in the elderly]

While in younger age groups prevention of acute diseases is the primary goal of therapeutic intervention, in the elderly the up-rise of disabilities due to chronic conditions must be focused. Underestimated risk factors like cognitive decline, depression, falls and lack of social contacts are highly correlated with disability. A comprehensive functional diagnostic is therefore important in order to identify risk factors and to develop preventive strategies. The geriatric assessment plays a major role in this concept. Preventive home visits have become an effective intervention model. On the other side, specific tools for nursing home residents are lacking. We highlight the epidemiological context and the dimension of disability of a population in which preventive models for the elderly can play a major role. Than, we point out models that put their emphasis on preventive strategies for frail elderly persons.