Possible Sarcopenia and Its Association with Nutritional Status, Dietary Intakes, Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life among Older Stroke Survivors

Abstract

Background: Screening for sarcopenia in the stroke population is an emerging concept in research and clinical practice. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of possible sarcopenia and its associated factors among older stroke survivors who visited the neurology and rehabilitation departments of three public hospitals in Malaysia. Methods: We acquired data on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profiles, malnutrition risk, dietary intake, physical activity level, and health-related quality of life. Possible sarcopenia was diagnosed in individuals with decreased calf circumference and low handgrip strength, as proposed by the Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia (2019). Finally, we performed descriptive analysis and binary logistic regression. Results: Among 196 older adults with stroke (mean± standard deviation of age: 67.60 ± 5.70 years), 42.3% had possible sarcopenia, with a higher prevalence in the more advanced age group (≥70 years). In univariable analysis, possible sarcopenia was significantly associated with anthropometric indices, malnutrition risk, nutrient intake, physical activity level, and health-related quality of life. In multivariable analysis, body mass index (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.43–0.75) was the only factor associated with possible sarcopenia among individuals aged ≥70 years. Recurrent stroke (AOR=3.48; 95% CI, 1.02–11.92), body mass index (AOR=0.64; 95% CI, 0.54–0.76), and EQ-5D index (AOR=0.15; 95% CI, 0.03–0.78) were significantly associated with possible sarcopenia in the 60–69-year age group.Conclusion: The prevalence of possible sarcopenia among community-dwelling older stroke survivors was high. Therefore, we recommend routine screening for possible sarcopenia to ensure early nutritional and exercise intervention.

Prevalence and risk factors of possible sarcopenia in patients with subacute stroke

“…In the present study, BMI was not significantly associated with possible sarcopenia at discharge. This result differs from that in a previous study on possible sarcopenia in older stroke survivors residing in the Malaysian community, in which, higher BMI was significantly associated with a lower risk of possible sarcopenia regardless of age [ 29 ]. This inconsistency in findings may result from differences in the study populations.…”

Case-Finding for Sarcopenia in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Comparison of Mini Sarcopenia Risk Assessment with SARC-F and SARC-CalF

“…The low base rate of dairy intake may attenuate the discriminatory ability of the questions in identifying the risk of sarcopenia in our participant population, who may have nutritional statuses and dietary norms different from those of older adults in Western countries. 32 , 33 )…”

Sarcopenia as the Mobility Phenotype of Aging: Clinical Implications

“…[65,66] These assessment can help identify issues related to activities of daily living, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and other aspects. [67] Therefore, the KWGS guideline highlights the execution of CGA after the diagnosis of sarcopenia. [10] Assessing the management of chronic diseases and examining the medications administered are also necessary.…”