Abstract
The prevalence of malnutrition among older populations ranges 23–46% globally. In Singapore, 30.4% of community-dwelling older Singaporeans face nutritional risks. Malnutrition contributes to the onset of sarcopenia which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality for the individual and heavier healthcare burdens for the society. This cross-sectional study assessed nutritional status using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and its association with muscle mass, handgrip strength, and frailty status among community-dwelling older Singaporeans aged ≥50 years (N=976). Muscle mass and handgrip strength were measured using a bioimpedance analyzer (BIA) and a digital dynamometer respectively, while the Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illness, and Loss of weight (FRAIL) scale was used to gauge frailty. The sample had a mean age of 62.6 (SD=7.1) and was predominantly female (67%) and Chinese (92%). 78% of participants exhibited normal nutritional status and 90% were robust. 9% and 11% had low muscle mass and handgrip strength respectively when gender-based cut-offs were applied. MNA-SF scores were positively correlated with both muscle mass (r=0.33) and handgrip strength (r=0.12), and negatively correlated with FRAIL scores (r=-0.15), all p<0.001 after controlling for demographic variables. In other words, the lower the nutritional status, the lower the muscle mass and handgrip strength, and the frailer one is. These findings highlight that maintaining a healthy and balanced diet coupled with regular physical activity are important elements in the prevention and management of sarcopenia and frailty, conditions which limit older adults’ community mobility.
Presenters
Sharon ChewResearch Coordinator, CPHRI, Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), Central Singapore, Singapore Teresa Leong
Research Coordinator, Centre for Population Health Research and Implementation, Singapore Health Services Pte Ltd, Central Singapore, Singapore
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Aging, Frailty, Malnutrition, Older Adults, Muscle Mass, Muscle Strength
