Prevalence and predisposing factors of frailty and social inclusion among older adults: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to identify the prevalence and predisposing factors of frailty and social inclusion among community-dwelling older adults. Design: The study was conducted using a cross-sectional design. Sample: The target population consisted of older adults registered in five family health centers in a city in Turkey. The study was completed with 600 older adults. Measurements: The Tilburg frailty indicator (TFI) and the social inclusion scale were used to collect data. Results: The prevalence of frailty in older adults was 60.5%. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the risk of frailty was found to be higher in older adults aged 75 and over (2.5 times), those with low education level (5.8 times), those who were single (2 times), those with chronic diseases (1.8 times), those with unhealthy lifestyle (2.8 times), and those who were dissatisfied with their home living environment (5.9 times). It was found that age, education level, marital status, income, presence of chronic disease, lifestyle, satisfaction with their home living environment, and frailty explained 50% of the variance in social inclusion. Conclusion: The study concluded that most community-dwelling older adults were frail, and social inclusion was lower in those frail. Age, education level, marital status, lifestyle, presence of chronic disease, and satisfaction with their home living environment were found to be predisposing factors for both frailty and social inclusion. Public health nurses could develop strategies to prevent frailty in older adults and increase activities that encourage participation in social life.