DOI: 10.5176/2251-3140_2.1.29
Authors: Jones. G, Wallace. C, Kenkre. J, Khanna. P, Prossor. M.
Abstract:
A review of the literature reveals numerous international studies which have investigated frailty, and its determinants. The majority of the studies available have been conducted in North America, Mexico, and Canada. Studies within the European Union have been sporadic and limited. These studies all focused on profoundly frail and old participants; failing to address the issue of understanding the full spectrum of frailty. These countries differ to Wales with regards to financial, health and social determinants including alcoholism, drug abuse and obesity levels. Less developed countries suffer childhood diseases such as diphtheria and polio, which are still prevalent causing disability. Prevalence data specific to Wales with regard to the age and determinants of frailty are not available. Reference [1] produced a screening tool to determine a person’s frailty status. Typical categories are non frail = 0 deficit, pre-frail = 1-2, deficits and frail = 3-5 deficits [1]. The Fried screening tool is widely used to identify physical manifestations of frailty to predict disability and death. However, the screening tool developed by Fried [1] does not include psychological or cognitive components [2]. More recent research into the concept of frailty have recommended inclusion of cognitive impairment to improve the predictive validity of the Fried [1] screening tool for adverse health outcomes [3]. Therefore, consensus on a universal definition and measure remains elusive. Subsequently recommendations highlighting the need for a frailty index to enable identification of those who are frail have been put forward: to promote health, well-being and subsequent healthy ageing. This pilot study will assess process and procedure prior to the full study of which it is anticipated will identify which determinants predict frailty, and the domains of frailty (physical, psychological, social and cognitive) within a sample of people over the age of 18 years in order to develop a frailty index.
Aim: To pilot test the methods, methodologies and procedures to gather the information needed to develop an operational frailty index in Wales prior to applications for ethical approval for the full study.
Keywords: Frailty, Primary care, Wellbeing, Index, Quality of life.
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