허약노인환자의 간호

Nursing Intervention for Frail Elderly

  Frailty among elderly is very serious matter because it shortens their life expectancy. Aging researchers and gerontologists recognized frailty as an attribute or a promoting factor of aging process in recent years. The purpose of this tutorial review was to discuss the definition of frailty, its pathophysiology, risk factors, and preventive interventions. Pathophysiology of frailty is mostly related to muscle weakness, osteoporosis, and abnormal cardiac output. Risk factors of frailty are immobilization, depression, and malnutrition. Exercise is the most effective measure for preventing frailty. The author hopes this review article increase the awareness for danger of frailty in elderly patients, particularly for nurses interested in care of the elderly.