Prevalence and Factors Associated With Frailty Among Older Adults Living With HIV Compared to Their Uninfected Peers From the Kenyan Coast

Abstract

Objectives: a) To document the prevalence and correlates of frailty among older adults living with HIV (OALWH) and their uninfected peers, and b) Investigate HIV status as an independent predictor of frailty. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between 2020 and 2021 at the Kenyan coast among 440 older adults aged ≥50 years (257 OALWH). Frailty was assessed using the Reported Edmonton Frail Scale. Logistic regression was used to examine the correlates of frailty. Results: The prevalence of frailty was significantly higher among OALWH (24%) than their uninfected peers (13%). HIV seropositivity was not independently associated with frailty. Sleeping difficulties, ageism, higher waist/hip ratio, visiting traditional healers, HIV treatment change/interruption, prolonged illness following HIV diagnosis, and self-reported diabetes were significantly associated with higher odds of frailty. Residing in larger households, having higher income, having friends, being male and light physical activities were significantly associated with reduced odds of frailty. Conclusion: The prevalence of frailty is elevated among OALWH; however, factors other than HIV are predominant, particularly psychosocial factors. Multicomponent interventions are needed to prevent/delay and manage frailty in this setting.