The frailty challenge

Frailty is an age-related state affecting 1 out of 4 adults over 85 years old in Europe. It is characterized by a weakened response to stressors and an increased risk of poor clinical outcomes. It is assumed that frailty is a dynamic process that leads to a spiral of decline that exacerbates the risk of geriatric syndromes.

Older people living with frailty are at risk of adverse outcomes such as dramatic changes in their physical and mental wellbeing after an apparently minor event that challenges their health, such as an infection, loneliness or new medication.

We are facing a paradigm shift. Longevity is one of the biggest achievements of modern societies, but the life quality of older adults in their latest years may be poorer due to frailty and long-term conditions. That’s why eCare looks for disruptive digital solutions for the prevention and comprehensive management of frailty in older adults. The target group are the pre-frail/frail old adults with an emphasis on those that feel lonely and/or isolated. The goal is to encourage independent living, wellbeing and to relieve health and care services budget pressure.

In the 21st century it is no longer a question of living longer, but of living longer and better. Ageing from now on should be healthy, active and technologically connected.