What gait speed indicates frailty when measured in meters per second?

A gait speed of 0.8 meters per second is recognized as a significant marker for frailty among older adults. Research indicates that a gait speed below this threshold correlates with increased risks of adverse health outcomes, including falls, hospitalization, and loss of independence.

Individuals who walk at this speed or slower often exhibit a combination of decreased physical function, strength, and overall health resilience. These factors contribute to the frailty syndrome, which is characterized by a decline in physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors.

In geriatric assessments, monitoring gait speed is essential for identifying those at risk and tailoring interventions focused on strength, balance, and mobility training to improve outcomes in this population.