Frailty levels and predisposing factors among older adults with coronary artery disease: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of frailty and identify predisposing factors among older adults with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 107 patients aged ≥65 years, who were assessed using an introductory information questionnaire and the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc tests, and multiple linear regression analyses. Results: The prevalence of frailty (mild, moderately, and severely) was 44.0%, and “apparently vulnerable” frailty was 15,9%. Participants aged ≥75 years had higher mean EFS scores compared to those aged 65–74 years (β=0.677, p<0.001). Participants using >5 medications had higher EFS scores compared to those using ≤3 medications (β=0.566, p=0.009). Female participants exhibited higher frailty scores compared to males (β=-0.590, p=0.003). Conclusion: The overall frailty prevalence was 44.0% (mild, moderate, severe) among older adults with CAD. Age, polypharmacy, and female gender were independently associated with frailty. These findings highlight the importance of routine frailty assessment in older adults with CAD to ensure holistic care planning and targeted interventions.