Development of Sarcopenia Management Systems for Former Homeless Older Adults Residing in Supportive Housing: Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Health Management

Background:

• Former homeless older adults are a vulnerable population with high risks for sarcopenia.
• Supportive housing settings require tailored management systems for early detection and prevention of sarcopenia.
• Compounded health and social disadvantages exacerbate sarcopenia risk in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a context-specific sarcopenia management system for former homeless older adults in Thailand.
• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this novel management system.
• To enhance the early detection, prevention, and care of sarcopenia in supportive housing.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods design involving development, implementation, and preliminary evaluation.
• Stakeholder consultations and focus groups with former homeless older adults and staff.
• System implementation and feasibility testing with 116 participants in supportive housing.

Main Results:

• A five-component sarcopenia management system (screening, classification, management, follow-up, evaluation) was developed.
• The system showed good feasibility and acceptability, with high user satisfaction.
• Perceived quality, benefits, and satisfaction scores indicated positive reception of the system.

Conclusions:

• This study introduces the first context-sensitive sarcopenia management system for former homeless older adults in Thai supportive housing.
• The system is well-accepted and shows potential for improving sarcopenia management in community-based settings.
• Further integration into routine care can strengthen early detection and prevention strategies.