A study of clinical profile of frailty in elderly patients attending KIMS teaching hospital, Koppal

Background: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome associated with increased vulnerability to adverse health outcomes. Early identification is important for improving care among elderly populations. Objectives were to assess the clinical profile of frailty and identify factors associated with frailty among elderly patients attending a tertiary care teaching hospital in Koppal, Karnataka. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over 18 months at KIMS Teaching Hospital, Koppal, among 100 patients aged ≥65 years. Frailty was assessed using the Fried frailty phenotype criteria. Demographic, socioeconomic, comorbidity, and functional data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multinomial logistic regression. Results: Among participants, 11% were robust, 52% pre-frail, and 37% frail. Frail participants were significantly older (p=0.013), with a higher proportion aged ≥70 years (p=0.008). Weak grip strength (73%) and reduced physical activity (48%) were the most common frailty components. Educational status (p=0.002), living arrangement (p=0.038), and income level (p<0.001) were significantly associated with frailty. Increasing age independently predicted frailty (OR=1.32, p=0.038), while hypertension showed a protective association (OR=0.07, p=0.039). Conclusions: Frailty and pre-frailty were highly prevalent. Routine frailty screening may support early identification and targeted interventions.