Most studies of aging have focused on vigorous or frail elderly rather than on older adults, transitioning to frailty. A better understanding of health status among transitionally-frail older adults can provide valuable information on delaying the onset of frailty. As part of a single blind clinical trial to determine the efficacy of Tai Chi in preventing falls among elderly transitioning to frailty, we examined baseline interviews of the 286 participants enrolled in the study. Participants were interviewed prior to randomization regarding demographic and behavioral characteristics including depression, falls efficacy, and health status. They were also assessed regarding functional abilities and comorbidities. Participants were primarily female (94%), white (81%), and at least 80 years (57%). Health status was measured using the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP). The mean total SIP score was 13.9, with 10% reporting little or no disability (SIP 0-3), 31% reporting minor disability (SIP 4-9), 35% reporting moderate disability (SIP 10-19), and 24% reporting severe disability (SIP 20+). Disability was greatest for the subcategories, recreation and pastimes (mean 29.0), ambulation (mean 24.1), and alertness behavior (mean 21.2). SIP scores were associated with falls efficacy (p<.0001) depression (p<.0001), lower extremity disability (p<.0001), and walking for exercise (p<.01), but were not associated with age, extremity strength, near vision, or sedative use. These data suggest that older adults, transitioning to frailty are already experiencing declines in physical and mental health. Identification of factors that influence health status can provide direction in the development of interventions to ameliorate or delay the onset of frailty.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Describe the health status of older adults transitioning to frailty. 2. Identify four factors that influence the health status of older adults transitioning to frailty.
Keywords: Aging, Disability
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.