Research Trends in Intervention Studies for Frail Elderly Adults in Korea: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Purpose: This study was a scoping reviewdesigned to identify research trends in intervention studies related to the frailty of older adults in Korea. Methods: The scoping review utilized the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) protocol. A literature search was conducted on DBpia, KISS, KMBASE, NDSL, RISS, CINAHL, and PubMed. In total, 1,131 articles were identified, and 41 articles were used for the final analysis. Two reviewers independently selected studies and extracted characteristics using pre-tested forms to determine the final inclusion. Results: The most widely utilized measurement tools were the Frailty phenotype scale and a basic measurement tool for frail older adults used in a customized visiting health care project at a public health center. For the intervention program, an exercise program as well as educational and cognitive enhancement programs, nutrition kit provision, etc., was used in 40 studies. The most common outcome variables measured in this study were bodily function followed by body composition. In addition, depression, quality of life, cognitive function, daily activities, perceived health status, and falling incidents were measured. Conclusion: Research related to frailty is being conducted on community-dwelling older adults, to develop and apply interventions suitable for institutionalized older adults. In research, the use of reliable tools to determine any weakness of older adults should be expanded, and various interventions such as psychosocial interventions, nutritional provision, and exercise programs should be developed and applied.