SCREENING FOR SARCOPENIA IN OLDER ADULTS LIVING IN KIRIKKALE PROVINCE: A PILOT STUDY

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia in individuals aged 65 and older residing in Kırıkkale province. Material and Methods: The study involved the assessment of 572 older adults registered at the Kırıkkale Hürriyet Family Health Center. Demographic data was collected through a case form. Cognitive status was assessed using the standardized mini-mental test, physical performance was assessed with the short physical performance battery, sarcopenia screening was conducted using the sarcopenia screening test, physical activities were measured using the physical activity scale for the elderly, handgrip strength was measured with the baseline digital hand dynamometer, and muscle masses were evaluated with the inbody120 bioimpedance analysis device. Results: The study revealed that out of 572 older adults, 31 (5.4%) had sarcopenia, with 19 (3.3%) of them having severe sarcopenia. The prevalence of sarcopenia was found to be 5.4%. When the symptomatic risk and sarcopenia status were examined according to the gender of the individuals, it was seen that 94.4% (186 people) of male individuals were healthy, and 5.6% (11 people) were at symptomatic risk. In terms of sarcopenia status, it was determined that 94.9% (187 individuals) of male individuals were not at risk of sarcopenia, 3.6% (7 individuals) had sarcopenia, and 1.5% (3 individuals) had severe sarcopenia. Among female individuals, 89.9% (337) were healthy, and 10.1% (38) were at symptomatic risk. In terms of sarcopenia status, 94.4% (354 people) of females were found to be at no risk of sarcopenia, 1.3% (5 people) had sarcopenia, and 4.3% (16 people) had severe sarcopenia. Conclusion: The existence of sarcopenia in older adults should not be overlooked, and necessary preventive measures should be taken. Additionally, older adults at risk of sarcopenia should be encouraged to participate in suitable exercise programs.