Aim To investigate whether the Kihon Checklist (KCL) can predict frailty and disability. Methods The studies analyzed for the present review were retrieved by searching electronic databases and other sources using the keywords “Kihon Checklist” and “Basic Checklist.” The articles were restricted to those written in English and published in health sciences journals from the year 2006 until the end of April 2015. To be included in the full analysis, the study had to be primary research and use the KCL as a dependent or independent variable. Results A total of 62 articles were identified in the initial search, and after screening, 13 articles were included in this review. The KCL was found to be closely correlated with validated assessments of frailty phenotypes. The complete version of the KCL and specific domains have been used as research outcomes to verify frailty in cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies. KCL domains were applied to evaluate different outcomes, such as depressive mood, functional disability and instrumental activities of daily living limitations. Conclusions The KCL is a reliable tool for predicting general frailty and frailty aspects in older adults. The KCL was shown to be adequate for cross‐cultural studies and to be suitable for addressing frailty demands among elderly in multiple cohorts. The KCL is a short questionnaire, which makes its administration by health promoters easy; thus, it has been used to evaluate the effectiveness of frailty interventions. We strongly recommend use of the KCL in community and clinical practice to assess frailty status. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 893‐902.