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.
Thank you for your interest. The application period for this committee has now closed.
Successful applicants will be notified by email.