Changes in Frailty and Depressive Symptoms Among Middle Aged Group of Local Community of Lahore.

Abstract

Frailty is a common yet unrecognized elderly syndrome that reflects an increased vulnerability to shocks due to the depletion of physiological reserves in multiple body systems. Although frailty has traditionally been associated with old age, recent studies have shown that middle-aged individuals can also suffer it, particularly if they have chronic illnesses. It has detrimental effects that include falls, hospitalization, disability, poor quality of life, and early mortality. The study employs the FRAIL index and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to assess these conditions. Objectives: The aim of study is to determine the correlation of frailty and depression among middle-aged individuals (45-65 years) in local community of Lahore, Pakistan, and to explore the effects of gender and age on this relationship. Methods: This cross sectional study conducted in Lahore from Jan 2024 to Oct 2024.A total of 332 participants were selected using non-probability convenience sampling from Lahore. Inclusion criteria included middle-aged individuals (45-65 years) exhibiting depressive symptoms and signs of frailty. Data collection involved administering FRAIL index to measure frailty and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to gauge depressive symptoms. Statistical analysis was performed using python (version 3.12), employing descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient to examine associations. Results: The study found that a significant proportion of the middle-aged local community of Lahore exhibited both frailty and depressive symptoms. A notable association was found between the severity of depressive symptoms and the degree of frailty. Socio-demographic factors such as age and gender had considerable impact on this association. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the critical need for integrated treatment and early screening for depression and frailty in middle-aged individuals in Pakistan. Given that they are disproportionately affected, women should be given more consideration. Providing psychological support and encouraging physical activity are two examples of community-based preventive strategies that may be highly successful. These findings can guide future health initiatives that target the mental and physical well-being of this vulnerable population