Frailty and sarcopenia—from theory to practice

Abstract

Frailty and sarcopenia have emerged as important syndromes in geriatrics. Their impact is far reaching and are associated with many poor outcomes in older adults. Assessment of frailty and sarcopenia should form part of the assessment in older adults at all encounters between healthcare staff and older adults, coupled with comprehensive geriatric assessment. Early interventions are warranted based on existing consensus guideline recommendations. Recently, strict lockdown measures to protect at-risk groups during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic may have led to worsening of frailty and sarcopenia among older adults, owing to social isolation, reduced access to care, and physical inactivity. Assessment and prevention of frailty and sarcopenia are of particular importance during pandemics. Further study is warranted to find the best strategies for managing frailty and sarcopenia.