Table 1 Canadian Study of Health and Aging Clinical Frailty Scale (13,21)

1

Very fit

People who are robust, active, energetic and motivated. They tend to exercise regularly and are among the fittest for their age.

2

Fit

People who have no active disease symptoms but are less fit than category 1. Often, they exercise or are very active occasionally.

3

Managing well

People whose medical problems are well controlled, even if occasionally symptomatic, but often are not regularly active beyond routine walking.

4

Very mild frailty

Previously vulnerable, this category marks early transition from complete independence. While not dependent on others for daily help, often symptoms limit activities e.g., ‘slowed up’ and/or being tired during the day.

5

Mild frailty

People who often have more evident slowing, and need help with high order instrumental activities of daily living. Typically mild frailty impairs shopping and walking outside alone, meal preparation, medications and begins to restrict light housework.

6

Moderate frailty

People who need help with all outside activities and with keeping house. Inside, they often have problems with stairs and need help with bathing and might need minimal assistance with dressing.

7

Severe frailty

Completely dependent for personal care, from whatever cause (physical or cognitive). They seem stable and not at high risk of dying (within 6-months).

8

Very severe frailty

Completely dependent for personal care and approaching end of life. Typically they could not recover even from a minor illness