Understanding frailty in aging: a multidimensional perspective from Northern Iran

The global aging population is increasing rapidly, positioning frailty as a significant health concern among older adults. Despite its significance, data on the prevalence and determinants of frailty among community-dwelling older adults in Iran remain limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of frailty and identify its associated factors among older adults attending primary healthcare centers in Sari, Iran, using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI).

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 368 individuals aged ≥ 60, selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a structured demographic questionnaire and the TFI, which evaluates frailty across physical, psychological, and social domains. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, bivariate tests, and linear regression to identify significant predictors of frailty.

The overall prevalence of frailty was 54.9%. Advanced age (β = 0.14, p < 0.05), lower income (β = -0.10, p < 0.05), dissatisfaction with living environment (β = 0.16, p < 0.05), history of hospitalization (β = -0.10, p < 0.05), presence of comorbidities (β = -0.14, p < 0.05), experience of death of loved ones (β = -0.08, p < 0.05), severe illness (β = -0.09, p < 0.05), respiratory disease (β = -0.08, p < 0.05), digestive disease (β = -0.08, p < 0.05), joint disease (β = -0.25, p < 0.05), and lipid disorders (β = -0.08, p < 0.05) were significantly associated with higher frailty scores.

Frailty is highly prevalent among older adults in Sari and is associated with a complex interplay of demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related factors. Given the modifiable nature of certain risk factors, targeted interventions focusing on social support, financial stability, and physical activity are essential to mitigate frailty and enhance the quality of life in Iran's aging population.