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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
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Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
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Frailty
Ariela R Orkaby1, Andrea Wershof Schwartz2, Kathryn E Callahan3
1New England GRECC (Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center), VA Boston Healthcare System, and Division of Aging, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (A.R.O.).
Annals of Internal Medicine
|February 9, 2026
Summary
Frailty, a syndrome of decreased physiological reserve, increases risks for hospitalization and mortality in older adults. Early screening and interventions can mitigate risks and improve function.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Clinical Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Frailty is a clinical syndrome characterized by diminished physiological reserve across multiple systems.
- It is strongly associated with adverse health outcomes, including hospitalizations, disability, institutionalization, and mortality, particularly in older adults.
- Patients with frailty may face increased risks from iatrogenic causes like high-risk medications or procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current definitions and assessment approaches for frailty.
- To discuss management strategies for individuals with frailty.
- To highlight the importance of frailty screening in various healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of frailty definitions.
- Analysis of assessment methodologies across different care settings.
- Synthesis of evidence on frailty interventions and management.
Main Results:
- Frailty is a recognized syndrome linked to significant health risks.
- Screening for frailty is recommended for chronic disease management and inpatient care.
- Interventions may potentially delay frailty progression or reverse its effects, enhancing functional capacity.
Conclusions:
- Identification of frailty enables targeted risk mitigation and patient-centered care alignment.
- Effective management strategies can improve outcomes and daily functioning for frail individuals.
- Further research and clinical implementation of frailty assessment and management are crucial.
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