Physical Therapist Management of a Person With Frailty Across the Continuum

Abstract

Management of the older adult with frailty is challenging. Multiple morbidities and their interrelationships can make the management of frailty arduous to diagnose and effectively treat. However, explicitly assessing for frailty can help optimize the older adult's care and provide an appropriate focus for the interventions. Effective treatment interventions must be individualized to encourage active participation and engagement. Appropriate dosing of exercise is essential. Nonetheless, the key to reversing or preventing a downward trajectory is increasing physical activity, necessitating the individual's active participation and empowerment.