title: Frailty and Novel Technologies - A Step Ahead.
abstract: Dependence and disability are almost inevitable consequences of population aging. As these conditions are considered irreversible, a growing interest has been directed towards the identification of related conditions that are still amenable to preventive interventions. In this context, frailty has attracted an increasing scientific interest. Frailty is characterized by decreased homeostatic reserves and diminished resistance to stressors. The frail elderly constitutes a complex population in terms of assessment, monitoring, adherence to recommendations, and follow-up. The use of novel technologies may be considerably helpful for both clinical and research purposes. In particular, technologies may support interventions preventing disability, improving the quality of life, and enhancing the wellbeing of frail people. Traditional assessment instruments can be complemented or replaced by mobile devices measuring and monitoring frailty domains (e.g., physical performance, cognitive function, physical activity, nutritional status). Novel technologies have indeed the potential to benefit, assess, monitor, and support frail older people to live independently and improve their quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Dr Eirini Kelaiditi, PhD. Institut du Vieillissement, Gérontopôle. Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier. 37 Allées Jules Guesde, 31000 Toulouse, France. Tel: +33 (0) 5 6114-5668. Fax: +33 (0) 5 61145640. Email: e.kelaiditi@gmail.com.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kelaiditi