Frailty is a complex syndrome involving multiple body systems; it predominately affects people 65 years of age and older. Frailty can be characterized by a loss of muscle mass and strength, reduced energy and tolerance for exercise, and cognitive impairment. The early signs and progression of frailty are often subtle, making it frequently underdiagnosed in primary care. Even when identified, the approaches to care tend to be inconsistent and lack proper integration across various health care settings.
Similarly, falls remain the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among Canadian older adults. In Ontario, falls are one of the leading causes of preventable injury among older adults and often lead to avoidable emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
Ontario Health is working in partnership with the Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Ontario to produce 2 new quality standards: 1 on falls and 1 on frailty. These quality standards will address care for adults in all health care settings.
The work on this quality standard starts in November 2025.
We are seeking volunteers interested in joining an advisory committee that will provide advice to support the development of 2 quality standards, focused on falls and frailty in adults.
Applications will be accepted until September 24, 2025
We welcome applications from the following people from across Ontario:
Successful applicants will:
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Be available to participate in 4 to 6 virtual meetings over a 12- to 16-month period;
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Review evidence, guidelines, and publications (provided by Ontario Health) related to the defined patient population;
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Identify and prioritize areas for statement development, based on where the greatest opportunities for improvement exist in Ontario;
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Review and advise on the development of statements and quality indicators;
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Once the quality standards are developed, facilitate their uptake and adoption.
Successful applicants will be notified by email.