School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, USA. brownmb@health.missouri.edu
Physical frailty is increasing among older adults; half of all those over 85 years are unable to independently accomplish activities of daily living. Gait speed is often compromised which results in diminished functional community independence. This article defines frailty and identifies the risk factors for frailty, as most are modifiable with diet and exercise interventions. Frailty is treatable but ideally, frailty should be prevented as it cannot be cured.