Annual frailty checks urged for Australians over 65

Annual frailty checks urged for Australians over 65

13 May 2026

The recommendation comes from a set of 19 agreed statements published in The Medical Journal of Australia. The framework aims to reduce differences in how frailty is identified and managed across the country.

Frailty is described as a common condition affecting more than one in five older adults. It can lead to reduced strength, lower independence, and a higher risk of hospital stays and aged care admission.

The experts suggest using a simple and reliable screening tool every year. This would help track changes over time and guide treatment plans where needed.

The work was developed by 77 healthcare professionals, including experts from the University of Queensland and members of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

They say frailty is not fixed and can sometimes be slowed, improved, or even reversed if it is picked up early and managed well.

However, doctors say checking alone is not enough. They say it must lead to real action, such as exercise programs, better nutrition, medication reviews, social support, and care planning.

One GP expert said frailty is often only noticed after a major event like a fall or hospital visit, when it may already be too late to prevent decline.

Doctors also stressed that medication reviews should not only focus on reducing drugs, as some older patients may also be under-treated.

While the framework is seen as helpful, experts note that it does not address system issues like funding and service access. They say general practice needs more support to properly respond once frailty is identified.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: The Medical Journal of Australia / newsGP

 

Categories

Popular Posts

Recent Posts

Tags