Retos · May 30, 2026
Relationship between frailty and physical fitness in institutionalized and non-institutionalized older adults
By Carriazo C, Hernández AMZ, Arias Y et al.
Introduction: Population aging increases frailty and functional decline among older adults. Frailty, a geriatric syndrome characterized by reduced physiological reserve, increases the risk of dependency and mortality. Assessing physical fitness provides valuable information on functional status and enables comparisons between institutionalized and community-dwelling older adults. Objective: To analyze the relationship between frailty levels and physical fitness among institutionalized and non-institutionalized older adults in Montería, Colombia. Methods: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted with 82 participants (41 institutionalized and 41 community-dwelling), selected through convenience sampling. Frailty was assessed using Linda Fried’s criteria, and physical fitness was evaluated with the Senior Fitness Test battery. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS® version 29. Results: Frailty was more prevalent among institutionalized participants (46.3%), whereas the pre-frail condition was more frequent in community-dwelling older adults (56.1%). Institutionalized participants showed lower aerobic endurance and flexibility, while community-dwelling participants demonstrated better muscular strength and functional mobility. No statistically significant associations were found between frailty and physical fitness. Discussion: The findings support the influence of the living environment and physical activity patterns on functional capacity, consistent with the multidimensional nature of frailty. Conclusion: Frailty was more frequent among institutionalized older adults. Comprehensive functional assessments and individualized interventions are recommended to prevent frailty and promote active, healthy aging, improving functional independence and quality of life.