What are the 5 key signs of frailty that indicate declining physical function?

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The five key signs of frailty that indicate declining physical function are unintentional weight loss, muscle weakness, slowness, poor physical activity, and exhaustion.

• Unintentional Weight Loss: A loss of 5% or more of total body weight over the previous year is a critical marker. This often signals underlying muscle wasting and reduced nutrient absorption, which can quickly deplete the body's reserves.
• Muscle Weakness: This is frequently assessed via handgrip strength or the ability to rise from a chair without using hands. Weakness in the lower limbs is particularly dangerous as it directly impacts stability and increases the risk of falls significantly.
• Slowness: This refers to a slower gait speed or difficulty walking across a 15-foot space. Many older adults who are frail take more than 10 seconds to cover this distance, which is a reliable predictor of dependency and hospitalization.
• Poor Physical Activity: Low levels of moderate activity, such as walking to the postbox or doing light housework, are indicative of energy conservation due to underlying frailty. In the UK, the NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, a goal that becomes challenging when this sign is present.
• Exhaustion or Low Energy: Self-reported low energy, or the inability to carry out daily tasks, often overlaps with the other criteria. Recognizing these five indicators is vital because frailty is a reversible state; early intervention through resistance training and nutritional support can often restore physical function.

admin · 2026-10-12 17:14:46