Frailty for Seniors
Frailty among S’pore elderly set to rise, but there are ways to prevent, delay and reverse condition
The Straits Times article discusses the issue of frailty among the elderly in Singapore and how it can be reversed. Frailty is a condition that affects older adults/ seniors and is characterized by a decline in physical and mental function. With an aging population, the prevalence of frailty in Singapore is expected to increase in the coming years.
The article highlights several studies that have shown that frailty can be reversed or prevented through interventions such as exercise, nutrition, and social support. Exercise has been found to be particularly effective in reducing frailty, as it improves muscle strength, balance, and overall physical function.
The article also mentions various initiatives that are currently in place in Singapore to address the issue of frailty among the elderly, such as the Active Aging Hub, which provides seniors with access to exercise classes and social activities.
Overall, the strait times article presents a hopeful message that frailty is not an inevitable part of aging and that there are ways to reverse or prevent it. By investing in programs that promote healthy aging, Singapore can improve the quality of life for its elderly population and reduce the burden on its healthcare system.
Preventing, Delaying and Reversing Frailty
According to Dr Goh, frailty also drives up medical costs because someone who is severely frail has to pay five times as much as a patient with chronic disease such as diabetes.
“This is why there is a need to intervene early. The silver lining here is frailty can be reversed,” he said.
More Quotes From Dr Jerome Goh
Dr Jerome Goh, clinical director of the division for central health at TTSH, said:
“What worries us is that 10 per cent of those above 65 years have mild to moderate frailty, while 5 per cent have severe frailty. “That is why we have to do something about it before the costs of their medical care soar.”
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