The Factors Affecting Frailty among the Elderly in Korea: A Study Using the Frailty Cohort

In this study, the effects of health-related factors such as cognitive, mental, and physical functions on frailty among the elderly in Korea were analyzed, and basic data were provided to prevent frailty. Based on the frailty cohort, this study classified 11 independent variables into physical, mental, cognitive, social, and activities of daily living. Multiple regression analysis was conducted using the Korean frailty index as the dependent variable. Consequently, the following regression equation was derived: The Korean frailty index = 8.412 + 0.148 × (SGDS-K) − 0.000095 × (K-ABC) − 0.122 × PF + 0.327 × (K-ADL) − 0.049 × (K-IADL) − 0.047(MNA) + e. Among the 11 factors, one mental (SGDS-K) and two activities of daily living were health-related factors affecting the frailty of the elderly. The results of this study will help in establishing plans for the prevention and intervention of aging and can provide basic data for government-level community care for the prevention of aging in the future.