Speakers - 2027

Title: New geriatric giants

Abstract

The Original Giants (1965) were coined by Bernard Isaacs as immobility, instability, incontinence, and impaired intellect/memory.

Two New Modern Giants have been updated to reflect contemporary geriatric medicine, shifting focus toward physiological decline and metabolic vulnerability

• Frailty: A state of increased vulnerability to stressors resulting from age-related cumulative declines across multiple organ systems.
• Sarcopenia: The progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength linked to physical disability and falls.

These modern syndromes serve as major harbingers for adverse health outcomes, including falls, hip fractures, increased hospitalization rates, institutionalization, and higher overall mortality. Early identification using screening tools (such as the FRAIL or SARC-F scales) helps clinicians implement targeted interventions such as  resistance exercise and nutritional support.