Needing help to get out of a chair could be early sign of frailty
Difficulty standing from a chair or car is identified by geriatric experts as an early warning sign of frailty, even in middle-aged adults. Experts suggest that early intervention through muscle-strengthening exercises can reverse these trends and help seniors maintain independence.
Why it matters
Identifying early physical decline is critical for preventing long-term disability in aging populations.
Frailty is when the body cannot get through and recover from illnesses and injuries on its own, making it more vulnerable.
Listen Summarise Difficulty standing up from a chair or car can be an early sign of frailty and muscle loss, even in people in their 30s or 40s, said Changi General Hospital’s Samuel Chew. Experts said frailty can be reversed if found early. Seniors should do muscle-strengthening exercise twice weekly, but only 36.8% aged 60 to 74 do so, according to the National Population Health Survey. Poor muscle health, low protein intake and social isolation can worsen decline. Singapore is expanding active ageing centres and age-friendly neighbourhoods to help seniors stay independent. AI generated
SINGAPORE – Needing additional effort to get up from a chair or out of a car could be an early sign of frailty, even if someone is still in their 30s or 40s.
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