Frailty is defined as a medical syndrome with multiple causes that is characterized by what?

• A. Diminished strength, endurance and reduced physiological function
• B. A temporary condition after illness
• C. A normal part of aging
• D. A specific nutritional deficiency

Answer: (A)

Frailty is a medical syndrome that reflects a reduced ability to cope with and recover from stressors due to diminished strength, endurance, and reduced physiological function across multiple systems. This means the body has less reserve to handle illness, injury, or even routine stress, leading to higher risk of adverse outcomes like falls, hospitalization, or disability. That’s why the statement describing diminished strength, endurance, and reduced physiological function is the best fit. It’s not just a temporary condition after illness, not a normal part of aging, and not a single nutritional deficiency—nutrition can influence frailty, but the syndrome involves broader, multi-system vulnerability.