The prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in a German geriatric day clinic

Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity are defined by the loss of muscle strength and mass. Both diseases pose a growing global challenge. Their prevalences vary between studied populations. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalences of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in sample of community-dwelling older adults attending a geriatric day clinic.

A secondary analysis of the Paint-II Data (single-center randomized controlled trial on the effects of art therapy) was used to estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity. Furthermore, a machine learning model predicted factors associated with both diseases.

We had body composition information on 255 of the 409 Paint-II participants. Their mean age was 81 ± 5 years and 78 % were female. Depending on the appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) definition, the prevalence of sarcopenia ranged between 10 % and 24 % using ASM/height² or absolute ASM respectively. The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity was 15 %. Weight was the most influential predictor, with higher weight being linked to sarcopenic obesity and lower weight associated with sarcopenia.

The prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity among community-dwelling older adults attending geriatric day clinics is higher than among the general geriatric population. There is a significant discrepancy in sarcopenia prevalence depending on whether muscle mass is measured absolutely or adjusted for body size. Diagnosis is further complicated by varying recommended cut-offs. We support efforts to simplify and standardize the diagnostic criteria.