Gender Differences in Frailty and Hospitalization in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Choi Bokyoung, Shin Yumi, Kim Chang-O, Choi Ahreum, Choi Eunhee, Lee Hyeyeon, Jang Soog-nang
Primary Institution: Institute for Community Care and Health Equity, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Hypothesis
This study aimed to investigate the association between frailty and hospitalization experience among older adults in South Korea, while also exploring potential gender differences in this association.
Conclusion
The study found that frail older women have a significantly higher risk of hospitalization compared to non-frail women, while this association was not significant for men.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of frailty among older adults was 14.4%.
- The prevalence of hospitalization over the past two years was 9.6%.
- Frail individuals had a higher risk of hospitalization compared to non-frail individuals.
Takeaway
Older women who are frail are more likely to go to the hospital than those who are not frail, but this isn't the case for older men.
Methodology
Data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (2018-2020) was used, with frailty assessed through grip strength, exhaustion, and social isolation, and hospitalization experience measured by self-report.
Participant Demographics
Older adults aged 65 and over in South Korea.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI:1.28-2.08 for pre-frail, 95% CI:1.85-3.39 for frail
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website