The Rockwood Frailty Score
The Rockwood Frailty Score (also called the Clinical Frailty Scale) is a simple tool doctors use to measure how frail or robust a person is, especially older adults. It gives a score from 1 to 9, based on a person's general health, independence, and energy levels.
In short: It’s a way to quickly gauge how strong or vulnerable someone is, which helps doctors decide on treatments
1
Very fit:
Extremely active, healthy, and energetic.
2
Fit:
Active and healthy, but not as strong as those rated “very fit.”
3
Managing well:
Medical problems are well controlled, but not regularly active beyond routine activities.
4
Vulnerable:
Not dependent on others, but slowing down and might need more help with challenging tasks.
5
Mildly frail:
Need some help with everyday activities like cooking or shopping, but can usually manage personal care.
6
Moderately frail:
Need help with personal care (bathing, dressing), and often have more health problems.
7
Severely frail:
Completely dependent on others for personal care, though they may still be medically stable.
8
Very severely frail:
Completely dependent and approaching the end of life; typically unable to recover from even small illnesses.
9
Terminally ill:
Life expectancy is likely less than 6 months, but they may not appear frail otherwise.