Association Between Refrigerator Openings and Protein Intake After Hospitalization for Heart Failure Decompensation:...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sarcopenia and frailty are common in older adults, often linked to heart failure (HF) and reduced protein intake.
• Older adults generally consume less protein, increasing risks associated with muscle mass loss.
• Early indicators of frailty and nutritional status are crucial for timely interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if the timing of the first daily refrigerator opening correlates with protein intake in older patients (≥70 years) after HF decompensation.
• To explore the potential of refrigerator usage patterns as a digital biomarker for nutritional status.

Main Methods:

• A substudy of a prospective cohort investigating digital biomarkers for HF decompensation.
• Measurement of refrigerator door opening frequency and timing using ambient sensors.
• Assessment of protein intake via 24-hour dietary recalls at 1, 3, and 6 months post-discharge, conducted by dietitians.

Main Results:

• The study is in the data collection phase, with recruitment initiated in February 2024.
• 12 patients recruited as of manuscript submission; results are anticipated by late 2025.
• Data analysis will commence upon completion of data collection.

Conclusions:

• Refrigerator usage patterns, particularly the timing of the first opening, may reflect protein intake and nutritional status.
• Monitoring refrigerator use could offer a simple method for identifying individuals at increased risk of sarcopenia and frailty.
• Early detection via this method may facilitate interventions to mitigate risks associated with muscle mass decline.