Korean J Fam Pract.  2024 Dec;14(4):172-176. 10.21215/kjfp.2024.14.4.172.

Geriatric Syndrome and Frailty in Older Individuals

• Kim W

• KMID: 2562677
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.21215/kjfp.2024.14.4.172

Abstract

Rapid aging has become a global issue, resulting in a significant increase in geriatric syndrome, a multifactorial clinical condition in older individuals characterized as a unified manifestation of accumulated multiple system impairments. Frailty, a clinical state of reduced physiological reserves, is an increasingly significant public health burden. Frailty can also be considered a syndrome as it involves a decline in physiological responses to stimuli, commonly referred to as stress, resulting in reduced homeostatic maintenance. Furthermore, sarcopenia, an age-related syndrome characterized by progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, is a major component of frailty. Consequently, understanding geriatric syndrome, frailty, and sarcopenia is important in older adult healthcare. Geriatric syndrome, including frailty, extends beyond the confines of traditional medicine. Geriatric syndrome is not an inevitable consequence of aging; rather, it is a condition that can be effectively mitigated through integrated care within medical and social welfare systems. Therefore, this study aimed to review geriatric syndrome and frailty, which are key factors in determining the health status of older individuals. In addition, effective methods for the prevention and management of geriatric syndrome are suggested.

Keyword

Geriatric Syndrome; Frailty; Sarcopenia; Aged