What are the Modifiable Risk Factors for Later Life Frailty Development Found Within Midlife Community-Dwelling Adults? A Systematic Review

ObjectivesThe older population and prevalence of frailty are increasing worldwide. Understanding how midlife exposures influence frailty risk is increasingly important for public health. This review sought to identify modifiable risk factors present in midlife that are associated with the onset of frailty in later life, aiming to inform earlier prevention strategies.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of studies examining modifiable risk factors in community-dwelling adults aged 39-64 years, using three databases and strict inclusion criteria, following PRISMA guidelines.ResultsTwenty cohort studies identified 27 modifiable risk factors across six domains; Lifestyle, Psychological, Social, Physical, Environmental, and Biochemical. Lifestyle factors such as physical activity, diet, smoking, alcohol use, and body composition were the most prominent.ConclusionPromoting awareness may empower midlife adults to instigate changes to reduce future frailty risk. Further research should clarify the causal strength of these factors to guide prevention efforts.