Frailty in elderly people with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

In recent years, the concept of frailty as a “state of pre-disability” has been widely accepted by those involved in the care of the elderly. Its importance lies not only in its high prevalence – more than 25% in people over 85 years of age – but it is also considered an independent risk factor of disability, institutionalisation and mortality amongst the elderly. The study of renal function is relevant in patients with major comorbidities. Studies have shown a significant association between chronic kidney disease and the development of adverse clinical outcomes such as heart disease, heart failure, end-stage renal disease, increased susceptibility to infections and greater functional impairment. Frailty can be reversed, which is why a study of frailty in patients with chronic kidney disease is of particular interest. This article aims to describe the association between ageing, frailty and chronic kidney disease in light of the most recent and relevant scientific publications.

Keywords

• Chronic kidney disease
• Aged kidney
• Frailty
• Inflammation
• Successful ageing