Sarcopenia — the progressive age-related loss of muscle mass, strength and function — is a geriatric syndrome with serious consequences: falls, frailty, disability and increased mortality. It is underestimated and often undiagnosed, despite being treatable.
Diagnostic criteria and assessment
The European EWGSOP2 group has defined diagnostic criteria based on muscle strength (dynamometry), muscle mass (BIA, DEXA) and physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery, walking speed). Sarcopenia assessment should form part of the comprehensive geriatric assessment of every older patient receiving home care.
Exercise as therapy
Progressive resistance exercise is the most effective strategy for countering sarcopenia. Even frail and very old people respond positively to structured muscle-strengthening programmes. The home physiotherapist can design and deliver safe programmes adapted to the patient’s condition, monitoring progress over time.
Adequate protein nutrition
Adequate protein intake (1.2-1.6 g/kg/day in older people) is essential to support muscle synthesis. Collaboration between physiotherapist, nurse and nutritionist ensures an integrated approach that maximises the results of intervention for sarcopenia.
📚 Scientific evidence
- Cruz-Jentoft A.J. et al. (2019). Sarcopenia: revised European consensus on definition and diagnosis. Age Ageing, 48(1):16-31.
- Peterson M.D. et al. (2011). Resistance exercise for muscular strength in older adults. Ageing Res Rev, 10(3):389-96.
- Bauer J. et al. (2013). Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people. J Am Med Dir Assoc, 14(8):542-59.
