Successful or pathological aging and frailty as a mediator. Connection with cardiovascular diseases

General Medicine, 2024, 26(6), 38-48.

V. Stoyanova

Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Medical University ‒ Sofia

Abstract. This review offers a holistic approach to the various theories of aging. It considers successful aging as a product of bio-psycho-social influences throughout life and as a possible alternative to various biological and psychosocial challenges in old age. The concept of frailty is analyzed as an expression of pathological aging, along with its different components and possibilities for recognition. Data is presented on the adverse risk impact of frailty on the clinical course and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which are among the most common in old age. The common pathogenetic mechanisms between frailty and CVD are discussed. The data presented in this review could be useful in general medical practice to enhance the focus on frailty as a geriatric construct and its impact on functioning and quality of life in old age.

Key words: successful and pathological aging, physical and cognitive frailty, cardiovascular diseases

Address for correspondence: Assoc Prof. Vesela Stoyanova, MD, PhD, e-mail: vestoyan@yahoo.com