The coexistence of frailty and 3 or more comorbidities in older adults with atrial fibrillation significantly reduced health-related quality of life (adjusted β -0.19) compared to robust patients.
Cross-Sectional (n=659)
Sí
In older adults with atrial fibrillation, the combination of frailty and multiple comorbidities significantly worsens health-related quality of life and increases the burden of health management.
Estimación del efecto: Beta -0.19 (95% CI -0.30 to -0.07)
Tasa de eventos absoluta: 0.53% vs 0.79%
valor p: p=0.001
Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in older adults and often coexists with other chronic conditions, exacerbating physical and cognitive decline and contributing to frailty. The interplay between frailty and comorbidity in AF remains underexplored, particularly regarding quality of life (QoL), health management, and outcome prioritization. Within the AFFIRMO project, this study investigated the experiences of older adults with AF and at least one chronic condition via an online survey. Frailty was assessed using the FRAIL questionnaire, and participants were grouped by frailty status and number of comorbidities. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured using the EQ-5D-3L and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Challenges in health management and prioritized outcomes were also explored. We included 659 participants (median age 72 years, 52.8% female). Those with pre-frailty or frailty and ≥ 3 comorbidities reported the poorest HRQoL. Comorbidity, particularly combined with frailty, was associated with health management difficulties, including healthcare visits, polypharmacy, and mobility limitations. Across all groups, maintaining independence and improving QoL were prioritized outcomes. Pain relief was especially important for those with higher comorbidities. In older adults with AF, comorbidity and frailty significantly affect QoL and health burden. Tailored, patient-centred care strategies and routine assessment of frailty and comorbidity are essential to improve care coordination and outcomes.
Ravelli et al. (Mon,) conducted a cross-sectional in Atrial fibrillation (n=659). The coexistence of frailty and 3 or more comorbidities in older adults with atrial fibrillation significantly reduced health-related quality of life (adjusted β -0.19) compared to robust patients.