Non-pharmacological treatment for psychological health in older people with frailty: a commentary on a systematic review.

Abstract

Frailty is a multi-dimensional syndrome commonly associated with older age and characterised by reduced physical, mental and social reserve. Prevalence rates for frailty in older adults continue to rise, putting individuals at increased risk of adverse events such as falls, disability and early death. Psychological health is also affected, and depression is more common in older adults with frailty. Treatment for this population is more likely to be pharmacological than psychological, meaning an increased risk for polypharmacy and side effects. A systematic review was undertaken by Tao et al. 2023 to explore non-pharmacological interventions for older adults with frailty on psychological outcomes. This commentary will critically appraise the review, consider the review’s implications for community practice, and discuss requirements for further research.