[Nutrition, frailty and healthy aging].

Introduction

frailty is a common clinical syndrome in older adults, associated with functional decline, increased risk of dependency, and a greater healthcare burden. Malnutrition, frequently observed in frail individuals, is linked to higher morbidity and mortality, particularly in critical situations such as hip fractures. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management of frail elderly, including nutritional intervention and promotion of physical activity, can reverse or slow down its progression.

Objective

this manuscript reviews the impact of both interventions with a particular focus on patients with osteoporotic hip fractures as the most extreme manifestation of frailty.

Methods

the value of measures such as bioimpedance (BIA), anterior rectus femoris ultrasound (ARF), and the C-reactive protein/prealbumin ratio (CRP/PreAlb) are explored as indicators of nutritional status and clinical prognosis.

Results

results from the IRENE study, a randomized controlled clinical trial, show that high-protein and hypercaloric oral supplementation significantly improves these parameters following hip surgery in elderly patients.

Conclusions

the integration of functional and analytical assessment tools, along with early nutritional intervention and scheduled physical activity, constitutes an effective strategy to optimize recovery and reduce complications in the management of frail geriatric patients.