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Factors associated with sarcopenia in institutionalized elderly.
Leônidas de Oliveira Neto1, Larissa Praça de Oliveira2, Pedro Moraes Dutra Agrícola3
1Department of Arts, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil.
Journal of Public Health (Oxford, England)
|August 25, 2020
Summary
Sarcopenia in institutionalized elderly is linked to reduced physical capacity and anthropometric measures. Taller individuals and those who can ambulate have a lower likelihood of sarcopenia, indicating its association with malnutrition and overall body mass loss.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Sarcopenia diagnosis relies on assessing strength, functionality, and muscle mass.
- Understanding factors associated with sarcopenia is crucial for the institutionalized elderly population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with sarcopenia in elderly individuals residing in long-term care facilities.
Main Methods:
- A study included 219 institutionalized elderly individuals (≥60 years).
- Data collected included anthropometric, biochemical, sociodemographic, and health-related factors.
- Statistical analyses involved t-tests, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, and Poisson regression.
Main Results:
- Physical capacity and anthropometry were significantly associated with sarcopenia.
- Increased knee height and maintaining a healthy weight (eutrophic or overweight) correlated with a lower chance of sarcopenia.
- Ability to ambulate and anthropometric indicators showed a relationship with malnutrition and sarcopenia.
Conclusions:
- Sarcopenia involves a loss of overall body mass, not just muscle.
- Reduced physical ability, particularly ambulation, is a key characteristic of sarcopenia.
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