Frailty is defined as a clinical state in which the body has diminished strength, endurance, and resilience, making a person more vulnerable to stressors such as injury and illness. It’s estimated that 7–12% of Americans age 65 and older are frail. Because it is associated with an elevated risk of falls, hospitalization, disability, and complications from illness and surgery, frailty can significantly impact an individual’s ability to remain independent and maintain quality of life. Common characteristics of frailty include unintentional weight loss, weakness, fatigue, slow walking speed, and low physical activity. The presence of three or more of these features meets the diagnostic criteria for frailty, as described by the Fried’s Frailty Phenotype model.

Current research suggests that frailty is associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, often influenced by lifestyle and metabolic health factors. Fortunately, frailty can often be improved—and sometimes partially reversed—especially when identified early. The key is consistent engagement in behaviors that help restore strength, function, and overall metabolic health:

• Resistance training is essential for increasing muscle mass and overall physical function.
• Balance-based exercises, such as yoga, can improve lower body strength, stability, and walking speed.
• Aerobic exercise can improve walking speed, reduce fatigue, and support cardiovascular health.
• An anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce systemic inflammation. Nutrients like flavanols can help counter oxidative stress, while dietary fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome, which influences overall health and immune function. Increasing protein intake is also important for maintaining muscle mass.
• Low or deficient vitamin D levels are common in frail individuals. Improving vitamin D status through diet, supplementation, and/or sun exposure may support muscle function, neuromuscular control, and bone health, while also helping to reduce inflammation.
• Maintaining social connections—such as sharing meals, participating in group activities, or volunteering—supports mental health and overall well-being.
• Seniors taking five or more medications are at increased risk for drug interactions and side effects. Reviewing medications with a healthcare provider can help determine if adjustments, dose reductions, or safer alternatives are appropriate.

Lastly, several studies have linked chronic pain—including musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic low back pain—with an increased risk of frailty. This may be due to reductions in physical activity and increased sedentary behavior, often driven by fear of worsening pain. Over time, this can lead to muscle deconditioning, reduced proprioception, and diminished functional capacity. Addressing musculoskeletal pain through conservative care, including chiropractic treatment, may help individuals stay active and improve their resilience, reducing the impact of frailty.