Possible sarcopenia and associated factors in community-dwelling older adults with a history of falls in the Republic of Korea: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia is a key modifiable risk factor for falls in older adults with a history of falls. However, its diagnosis is a challenge owing to limited resources in primary care or community settings. In 2019, the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia introduced the concept of 'possible sarcopenia' as an easily accessible diagnostic criterion for at-risk individuals. This study aimed to explore factors associated with possible sarcopenia in older adults with a history of falls.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 211 older adults aged 65 years and older with at least one fall in the past two years. Possible sarcopenia was identified using a stepwise approach: participants with low calf circumference (< 34 cm for men, < 33 cm for women) underwent further assessments of muscle strength (handgrip strength) and physical performance (5-time chair stand test). Those with low calf circumference along with either low muscle strength (< 28 kg for men, < 18 kg for women) or poor physical performance (≥ 12 s) were classified as having possible sarcopenia. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with possible sarcopenia.

Results: Among the older adults with a history of falls, 27.5% were identified as having possible sarcopenia. Significantly associated factors included older age (≥ 75 years), living alone, unemployment, and depressive symptoms, whereas sex, alcohol consumption, smoking, recurrent falls, and the fear of falling were not significant.

Conclusions: Possible sarcopenia is common in older adults with a history of falls and is significantly associated with advanced age, living alone, unemployment, and depressive symptoms. Therefore, early screening and targeted multifaceted interventions are crucial in mitigating sarcopenia.

Clinical trial number: Not applicable.