Rehabilitation and the Frail Older Female 1564

A majority of frail elders in the United States are women. These individuals also represent a substantial percentage of the disabled population, yet we have little specific information about this population. This mini-symposium will address general issues related to this population, special considerations for community dwelling minority populations, and strategies to maintain function in women who are living in long-term care facilities. A model for risk stratification for the community dwelling elders will be presented which focuses on functional performance and the risk for falls or long-term care placement of elders. This model has been tested in a group of predominantly Hispanic elders. Specific considerations for more frail individuals living in residential care will also be considered. The role of physical activity and musculoskeletal interventions will be addressed.