Definition of elderly in research
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Chronological Age as the Primary Definition of "Elderly" in Research
Most research studies define "elderly" based on chronological age, with 65 years and older being the most common threshold. However, there is significant variation, with some studies using ages as low as 50 and as high as 80 to define this group. This inconsistency is especially evident in fields like orthopaedics and pharmacotherapy, where definitions can range widely and sometimes are not provided at all, leading to confusion and challenges in interpreting research findings across studies 1367.
Variability and Limitations of Chronological Definitions
While the age of 65 is frequently used, it only accounts for about half of the studies in some fields, and many guidelines or research articles do not define "elderly" at all. This reliance on age alone does not account for the diversity in genetics, lifestyle, health status, and frailty among older adults, which can significantly affect research outcomes and clinical decisions 167. Some guidelines and research suggest that focusing solely on age can be overly simplistic and may not reflect the true needs or characteristics of older populations 67.
Alternative Approaches: Frailty and Functional Status
There is a growing recognition that defining "elderly" should go beyond chronological age. Some researchers advocate for the use of validated frailty indices or functional status measures to better capture the heterogeneity of older adults. These approaches can provide a more clinically relevant and individualized understanding of aging, especially in medical and clinical research 167.
Sociological and Discourse Perspectives on "Elderly"
In sociological research, the term "elderly" is also examined for its social and cultural implications. The word is often associated with discourses of care, vulnerability, and disability, rather than strictly marking a chronological age. This highlights the importance of considering the social consequences and perceptions attached to aging, which can influence both research and policy 2510.
Implications for Research and Practice
The lack of a standardized definition of "elderly" complicates the comparison and synthesis of research findings. It also poses challenges for clinical guidelines, which may not provide clear or practical recommendations for treating older adults. There is a consensus that future research and guidelines should move toward more nuanced and individualized definitions, incorporating factors like frailty, functional status, and social context, rather than relying solely on age 1367.
Conclusion
In summary, while the age of 65 is commonly used to define "elderly" in research, there is considerable variability and debate about this threshold. Chronological age alone is increasingly seen as insufficient, and there is a push toward more comprehensive definitions that consider frailty, health status, and social factors. Standardizing these definitions will improve the relevance and comparability of research involving older adults.
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