Changes in the Mental Health Status of Frail and Pre-Frail Older Adults Over a 1-year Period

Background
This prospective observational study examined changes in the mental health status of frail and pre-frail
older adults over a 1-year period, a topic lacking in-depth exploration in the literature.
Method
Fried Frailty Index was used to differentiate frailty status in participants recruited from community
centres and residential care facilities in Hong Kong. Demographic and clinical data were collected using
face-to-face interview at baseline and repeated after 12 months.
Results
Physical functioning, comorbidities, and psychological and environment domains (World Health
Organization Quality of Life instrument) impacted the cognitive functioning, depressive symptoms, and
sense of loneliness in the sample (N=107). Functional health and vision had a significant impact on
cognitive status; depression negatively associated with comorbidity, functional health, and quality of life
domains (psychological and environment); loneliness was affected by both age and environment.
Conclusion
The findings showed that frail and pre-frail older adults have complex needs in relation to their mental
health even just over a 1-year period. Intervention programs on frailty that focus on physical aspects will
not suffice. Programs for frailty also need to incorporate mental health components to enhance health
and wellbeing.