Assessment of Sarcopenia and its Association with Hand Grip Strength in Elderly Population

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia is a prevalent condition in older persons that is linked to significant morbidity and death. It was defined as an age-related loss of muscle mass and deterioration in muscle strength. Hand grip strength is significantly impacted by sarcopenia. Sarcopenia in older adults has significant effects on everyday functioning and general quality of life. Elderly mortality, diminished capacity to handle the stress of a serious illness, and disability are all influenced by sarcopenia.

Objective: This study aims to find the assessment of sarcopenia and its association with hand grip strength in elderly population.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and the data was collected from hospitals (Iffat Anwar, Central Park Teaching hospital), private clinics and old homes (Aafiat) through non-probability convenience sampling technique. The sample size was 187. The tools used to collect data were Digital Handheld Dynamometer, SARC-F questionnaire, and a demographic questionnaire. Data was assessed by using SPSS version 27.

Results: There is a strong association between sarcopenia and Hand Grip Strength and the P value is less than 0.05.  Mean Berg Balance scale value is 45.32% and mean hand grip strength is 18.88% among the participant.

Conclusion: Participants with sarcopenia showed positive association with hand grip strength and balance. There is a strong possibility that people with sarcopenia have impaired balance and hand grip strength.