Association between sensory impairment and sarcopenia in older Chinese adults: a 4-Year longitudinal study

Sarcopenia is a common geriatric syndrome that significantly increases the risk of falls, fractures, disability, and death in older adults. Sensory impairments are also prevalent among the elderly and may exacerbate the decline in physical function, even affecting muscle health. Understanding whether sensory impairments are risk factors affecting sarcopenia in older adults is crucial for developing effective public health policies and intervention strategies. Therefore, this study aims to explore the association between sensory impairments and sarcopenia and its components.

This study, based on the Chinese Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), included 4,195 participants aged 60 and above. The assessment of sensory impairment was based on self-reported visual and hearing capabilities. The diagnosis of sarcopenia followed the consensus of the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS) from 2019. Data analysis was conducted using an ordered logistic regression model, and the results report the odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Single sensory impairments at baseline showed no significant correlation with sarcopenia four years later, while dual sensory impairments (DSI) at baseline were significantly associated with sarcopenia (ORs: 1.308, 95% CI: 1.126-1.519). In the analysis of trends over time, transitions from no sensory impairments (NSI) to DSI (ORs: 1.372, 95% CI: 1.028-1.830), from hearing impairments (HI) to DSI (ORs: 1.334, 95% CI: 1.002-1.778), and persistent DSI (ORs: 1.470, 95% CI: 1.159-1.864) were all significantly associated with sarcopenia. Additionally, we found DSI is associated with poor physical performance and muscle mass but not muscle strength.

Our study indicates that DSI have a more severe impact on sarcopenia compared to single sensory impairments. Our findings offer a new perspective for prevention and intervention strategies, suggesting the inclusion of sensory impairment assessments in the clinical evaluation of sarcopenia risk. For elderly individuals with DSI, comprehensive intervention measures should be provided, such as sensory rehabilitation, nutritional support, and guidance on physical activities. For those with only a single sensory impairment, proactive preventive measures should be taken to prevent the progression to DSI.