This study was stopped due to slow enrollment after enrolling only 12 of 80 patients over 14 months time.

The purpose of this study is to assess changes in physical function in elderly patients (>= 65 years of age) with chronic anemia (Hb <= 11.0 g/dL) due to anemia of unknown cause and receiving weekly subcutaneous doses of Epoetin alfa (PROCRIT®) versus placebo

Some elderly patients have a chronic condition that causes anemia (reduction in hemoglobin level, or low red cell count). Anemia occurs commonly with aging and is a frequent medical condition in individuals over the age of 65. Physical performance and function is generally worse in individuals who are anemic. This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center study to assess physical function (to include falls) and fatigue in approximately 80 elderly patients with chronic anemia (anemia present for at least 3 months) and who are receiving weekly PROCRIT. The study will also evaluate hemoglobin levels (oxygen carrying protein in red blood cells), safety, fatigue and cognitive function. The study hypothesis is to demonstrate the study drug will be more effective in treatment of chronic anemia than placebo, resulting in the improvement of physical function and subsequent disabilities, generally well-tolerated. The patients will receive weekly injections of Epoetin alfa (PROCRIT®) or placebo at a starting dose of 10,000 units administered subcutaneously (under the skin).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of chronic anemia defined as a documented Hb value of <= 11.0 g/dL
• No active cancer
• At least 65 years of age with life expectancy of > 6 months
• Community dwelling patients
• Patients with a Short Physical Performance (SPPB) Summary Score of 4-10 at screening and baseline
• Patients with an Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score >= 24

Exclusion Criteria:

• Positive stool guaiac test
• Diagnosis of multiple myeloma and/or MGUS
• History of venous thromboembolytic disease
• Previous treatment with Epoetin alfa, Darbepoetin or any form of erythropoietin recently
• Uncontrolled or severe cardiovascular disease