100 Prevalence of probable sarcopenia and associated factors in older adults undergoing Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment

Abstract

Abstract Background Sarcopenia is a skeletal muscle disorder, underpinned by adverse muscle changes that accrue across the lifespan. It is associated with increased likelihood of falls, fractures, physical disability and mortality. Low muscle strength is a principal parameter of sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is probable when low muscle strength (grip strength) is detected. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of low grip strength in older adults referred for Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA). The relationship between grip strength and sarcopenia- related factors was evaluated. Methods A period prevalence study was undertaken between September 2022 and March 2023. All patients ≥65 years who underwent CGA by a Community Specialist Team were included. Grip strength was measured using the Southampton Protocol. Associated factors measured were age, gender, frailty (CFS: Clinical Frailty Scale score), risk of malnutrition (MST: Malnutrition Screening Tool), co-morbidity, cognitive change on Dementia Screening Interview (AD8), falls history and mobility impairment. Probable sarcopenia was based on EWGSOP2 definition. Descriptive statistics, odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and cross tabulation using Persons Chi squared test were used to determine if there was correlation between probable sarcopenia and associated factors. Results In total, 173 people attended for CGA (69 male, 104 female), mean age was 80 years (SD =7) and the median CFS score was 5 (mildly frail). The percentage of people who had their grip measured was 84% (n = 145). The prevalence of probable sarcopenia was 52% (n = 75). A positive correlation was identified between probable sarcopenia and age (p = 0.039), Clinical Frailty Scale score (p = 0.025), mobility impairment (p = 0.033) and those reporting cognitive change (p = 0.008). A positive association was identified between those with probable sarcopenia and ≥ 6 co-morbidities (OR 2.13; 95%CI 1.1–4.2). Conclusion Probable sarcopenia is associated with frailty, multi-morbidity, impaired mobility and cognitive change. Grip strength can identify older people who require CGA and targeted multimodal intervention.