The impact of ambient temperature on frailty progression in older adults: Evidence from a longitudinal study in China.

BACKGROUND

The aging population and frailty-related diseases pose significant public health challenges. This study examined the relationship between ambient temperature and frailty progression in older adults using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 6,187 participants (2015-2018) were analyzed using a standardized Frailty Index (FI). Participants were categorized into the Frailty Progress Rapid Group (FPRG) and Non-Frailty Rapid Progression Group (NFPRG) based on FI changes. Temperature data from 121 Chinese cities were analyzed using logistic regression and subgroup analyses to explore potential modifiers.

RESULTS

The Lowest Daily Average Temperature (TLDAT) and Average Annual Temperature (AAT) showed a negative association with frailty progression. The relationship between The Highest Daily Average Temperature (THDAT) and frailty progression was non-linear, with a turning point at 31.8°C. Subgroup analyses revealed that higher THDAT had a stronger impact on frailty progression in individuals with lower education and those living in rural areas.

CONCLUSION

Older adults benefit from environments with a TLDAT above -9°C, a THDAT below 31.8°C, and an AAT above 17°C. Public health strategies should consider temperature thresholds alongside sociodemographic factors like education and residence, which influence frailty progression.