Prevalence of Sarcopenia in Geriatric Day Hospital Ambulatory Patient and the Effects of 8-week Resisted Exercise Training to their muscle-related functions

Introduction

Sarcopenia is a common but always underestimated condition in elderly population. According to Asia Working Group of Sarcopenia (AWGS), Gait speed < 0.8m/s and/or Handgrip Strength with Male < 26 Kg and Female < 18 Kg and Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) with Male < 7kg/m2 and Female < 5.7kg/m2 are classified as sarcopenia. Sarcopenia in elderly is a known predictor for future morbidity and mortality. Early detection and intervention with Resisted Exercise Training are needed to augment the muscle-related functions of the sarcopenia elderly.

Objectives

1. Analyze the prevalence of ambulatory community-dwelling elderly (unaided or one handed aids) sarcopenia in Geriatric Day Hospital (GDH) 2. Evaluate the effect of an 8-week Resisted Exercise Training on muscle mass and the muscle-related functions.

Methodology

Elderly who were able to walk independently in GDH from July 2018 to September 2018 were selected. Elderly with pacemaker and metal implant were excluded. Handgrip Strength and bio-impedance body muscles composition assessment including SMI were assessed. The muscle-related functions including Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) were assessed. They were divided into two groups. One group (conventional) attended the conventional PT training in GDH and the other group (RE) received an 8-week Resisted Exercise Training at GDH and home regime with log book. All participants received the pre assessment and post 8 weeks assessment.

Results & Outcome

Results: Among 39 elderly assessed, 54% (N=21) was classified as sarcopenia according to AWGS definition. 12 and 9 sarcopenia elderly were assigned to RE and conventional group respectively. After 8-week training, both groups (3 cases drop out in RE group) showed significant improvement in BBS (RE: p=0.0001; conventional: p=0.001; paired t-test). RE group showed significant improvement in BBS (p=0.034; independent t-test) compared to conventional group. Only RE group showed significant improvement in TUGT (p=0.007; paired t-test). There was no significant difference in SMI in both groups. Conclusion: The prevalence of sarcopenia in GDH is quite high but they are often overlooked. Resisted Exercise Training has shown to be more effective to improve the muscle-related functions. Public Implications: Early screening and intervention with Resisted Exercise Training help to augment the muscle-related functions of sarcopenia elderly.