Older people can become frail while waiting for surgery. Frailty can lead to falls, injuries and delayed recovery.
Frailty is a common clinical syndrome experienced by older people. It is characterised by a decline of physical and cognitive reserves that leads to increased vulnerability. Frailty can affect your recovery:
- frailty is associated with increased risk of falls, longer hospital admissions, and difficulty recovering from illness and surgery
- when getting ready for surgery it is important to be as healthy as possible
- as people age they are at greater risk of becoming frail while awaiting surgeryÂ
- it is important to address frailty if you are waiting for surgery as it can lead to delayed healing or other complications following the operation
- frailty can be prevented or reversed, so speak with your GP.
Your GP will:
- review reasons you may be feeling tired or fatigued
- review your medications (prescription and over the counter)
- recommend specific exercises to help you build muscle & help balance
- recommend certain foods to optimise nutrition.
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This page was last updated 29 January 2025.
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