Fighting Frailty in Underserved Communities

Methods: Participants older than 50 years were recruited for frailty screenings and a 6-week exercise intervention. Participants were screened using grip strength, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale, and the Short Physical Performance Battery. Results: Seventy-six adults were screened, with 62 meeting criteria for frailty (81.6%). Thirty-four adults (mean age = 64.9, range 50-104, 26% < 65) received exercise intervention. Significant increases in Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (P =.042), grip strength (P <.001), and Short Physical Performance Battery (P <.001) were found. Conclusion(s): Medically underserved individuals may have a higher prevalence and earlier onset of frailty and respond favorably to exercise.