Grant: Operating Grant-PA: INMD Start Up Funds (bridge funding) - New Investigators

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects 1 in 4 elderly Canadians and can cause fatigue, loss of muscle strength and a poor quality of life. These symptoms together, can be referred to as the frailty syndrome. We believe that CKD is a major cause of frailty in the elderly and may be an important factor in healthy aging. We are proposing a study of 300 patients where frailty testing will performed by an exercise therapist. We will test hand grip strength and walking endurance, and ask questions about mood and energy. These tests will provide an accurate estimate of patient's muscle strength, fatigue and overall level of frailty. We will then examine whether frailty as perceived by the health care provider correlates with measured frailty. In addition, we will examine the association between frailty and treatment decisions and patient outcomes. Our study will be first of its kind to examine frailty in patients with CKD. The findings from this study will help explain how perceived and measured frailty impacts treatment decisions and patient outcomes. Once the study is completed, we will aim to start new trials of diet and exercise treatment with the goal of reducing frailty. Ultimately, these studies will hope to improve the quality of life for patients with kidney disease, by helping them preserve their independence