ANTECEDENTS OF FRAILTY OVER 3 DECADES IN AN OLDER COHORT

Studies of disability in old age have focused on gross measures of phy sical functioning. More useful results for prevention might be gleaned from examining risk factors associated with frailty, a concept implyi ng a broader range of more subtle problems in multiple domains. This s tudy conceptualized frailty as involving problems or difficulties in t wo or more functional domains (physical, nutritive, cognitive, and sen sory) and analyzed prospective predictors. Subjects,pere 574 Alameda C ounty Study respondents age 65-102. One-fourth scored as frail; there was no gender difference. Frail persons reported reduced activities, p oorer mental health, and lower life satisfaction. Cumulative predictor s over the previous three decades included heavy drinking cigarette sm oking, physical inactivity, depression, social isolation, fair or poor perceived health, prevalence of chronic symptoms, and prevalence of c hronic conditions. By modifying these risk factors, it may be possible to postpone the onset of frailty or ameliorate its further developmen t.