Frailty and Mortality Among Chinese at Advanced Ages

Abstract

Age, sex, ethnicity, urban-rural residence, economic condition, religious involvement, and daily exercise are significantly associated with levels of frailty. Hazard analyses further reveal that the FI is a robust predictor of mortality at advanced ages and that the relationship between frailty and mortality is independent of various covariates. Discussion The measurement and analysis of frailty have broad implications for public health initiatives designed to target individuals with the diminished capacity to effectively compensate for external stressors and to prevent further declines associated with aging and mortality. A key to healthy longevity is the prevention, postponement, and potential recovery from physical and cognitive deficits at advanced ages through enhanced medical interventions and treatments.