Frailty is something many people associate with ageing, but it’s not an inevitable part of growing older. In simple terms, frailty means the body’s strength, resilience, and energy have reduced, often making day-to-day life feel more challenging. The good news is that when the early signs are recognised, the right care and support can help people continue to live well and independently.
In this guide, we share the five key early signs of frailty and how spotting them can make all the difference to you or a loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Understanding frailty
Frailty is a medical term used to describe a state in which the body becomes more vulnerable to the effects of illness, injury, or even everyday stress. It is most often seen in older adults, but it can develop at different ages depending on overall health and life circumstances.
It is not a single disease, but rather a collection of signs and symptoms that signal a decline in strength, endurance, and physical function. Frailty can make simple tasks, like getting dressed, cooking a meal, or walking to the local shop, feel more difficult than before.
While it can progress gradually, frailty is not an inevitable part of ageing. Many people live long, active lives without becoming frail. The important thing to remember is that early recognition and the right support can slow its progression, improve day-to-day well-being, and help someone continue living safely at home for as long as possible.
5 early signs of frailty
Frailty often develops slowly, and the changes can be easy to dismiss as “just getting older.” By knowing the signs to watch for, you can take action early and help a loved one stay active and independent for longer.
1. Unplanned weight loss
If someone loses weight without trying, especially more than 5% of their body weight in 6–12 months, it can be a sign that something’s not quite right. It might be down to a smaller appetite, difficulty cooking, or other health issues. Losing weight too quickly can lead to muscle loss, less strength, and lower energy, so it’s important to get it checked out.
2. Weakness or reduced grip strength
Struggling to open jars, carry shopping bags, or get up from a chair could be a sign of muscles getting weaker. This can affect balance, make daily tasks harder, and increase the risk of falls. Gentle strength exercises, support from a physiotherapist, and a healthy diet can help keep muscles strong.
3. Slow walking speed
If someone begins to walk noticeably slower, or takes longer to get from room to room or out to the garden, it may be an early indicator of frailty. Slow walking speed can be linked to reduced muscle strength, balance issues, joint problems, or low energy.
4. Exhaustion or low energy
Feeling more tired than usual, losing the drive to do things you normally enjoy, or finding everyday tasks harder than before can be an early sign that your body isn’t as resilient as it once was. Ongoing fatigue can affect mood, make it harder to stay active, and leave you more open to illness.
5. Increased vulnerability to illness
Catching colds more often, picking up infections easily, or taking longer to recover from even minor illnesses can be a sign that your immune system isn’t as strong as it could be. This can make it harder to bounce back from everyday health setbacks.
Supporting someone showing signs of frailty
If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in yourself or a loved one, the most important thing is not to ignore them. Acting early can make a real difference to health and day-to-day independence.
Here are some practical ways to help:
- Book a health check-up – A GP can review symptoms, check for underlying issues, and suggest the right treatment or support.
- Look at nutrition – Make sure meals are balanced, with enough protein, vitamins, and minerals to maintain strength and energy. If your loved one is struggling with loss of appetite, our guide has useful tips that can help.
- Encourage gentle movement – Activities like walking, stretching, or chair exercises can improve muscle strength and balance.
- Review medications – Some medicines can cause tiredness or dizziness, so it’s worth checking these with a doctor or pharmacist.
- Create a safe home environment – Remove trip hazards, improve lighting, and make commonly used items easy to reach.
- Stay connected – Loneliness and social isolation can contribute to frailty. Regular social contact, whether in person, online, or by phone, can boost mood and motivation.
For more expert advice from our carers, read our guide on treating frailty in older adults.
For many people, arranging some extra help at home can be a turning point. A compassionate carer can assist with daily routines, provide companionship, and keep an eye on any changes in health, all while helping the person continue living life their way.
When to contact a GP
If you notice one or more signs of frailty, it’s always a good idea to speak to a GP, even if the changes seem small. Early advice and support can make a big difference to health, safety, and independence.
You should contact a GP promptly if:
- Weight loss happens quickly or without explanation.
- Weakness or unsteadiness leads to falls or near-misses.
- Walking speed slows noticeably over a short period.
- Fatigue is constant and affecting daily life.
- Illnesses seem more frequent or recovery is taking longer.
A GP can carry out a full health review, arrange tests if needed, and recommend steps to help manage or slow the progression of frailty. They can also refer to other specialists, such as physiotherapists, dietitians, or occupational therapists, to provide extra support at home.
How prestige nursing& care can help
If someone you care for is showing signs of loneliness or vulnerability, our competent and compassionate carers can help.
For over 80 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has provided bespoke mobility care at home, for all of life. Our bespoke and individually-tailored home care services are designed to support people in living with greater independence and improved quality of life in their own homes.
On top of providing support with everyday tasks, our carers are there to offer friendly companionship and emotional support. By providing a listening and sympathetic ear, supporting hobbies and interests or just popping in for tea and a chat, our carers can help reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation that are so often experienced later in life.
Call us on 0808 239 1525 and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you can make the right choice for you and your family.
