Evaluation of Frailty, Balance, and Dual-Task Performance in Sarcopenic and Asymptomatic Older Adults

This study evaluated frailty, balance, and dual-task performance in older adults with sarcopenia, compared with asymptomatic individuals. A total of 62 community-dwelling older adults who were registered at a Family Health Center in Kırıkkale province were included in this cross-sectional study, comprising 31 individuals with sarcopenia and 31 asymptomatic controls. Demographic and clinical data were collected using a structured case report form. Nutritional status was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment, frailty with the Clinical Frailty Scale, and cognitive status with the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination. Balance and gait were evaluated using the Tinetti Balance and Gait Evaluation; dual-task performance was assessed with the Dual Task Questionnaire,; and physical fitness was measured using the Short Physical Performance Battery. Sarcopenia status was determined using the SARC-F questionnaire, muscle strength was assessed withusing a hand dynamometer, and muscle mass was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. After controlling for age and body mass index, significant differences were found between the groups inbetween-group differences were found in arm and calf circumferences, handgrip strength, gait speed, chair stand timechair-stand time, balance scores, and both subscale and total scores both the subscale and total scores of the Short Physical Performance Battery (p < .05). Significant differences were also observed in Tinetti balance and gait scores, as well as in nutritional status and sarcopenia screening scores. Older adults with sarcopenia demonstrated lower muscle strength, poorer balance, slower gait speed, reduced physical performance, poorer nutritional status, and higher frailty levels compared to asymptomatic individuals. However, no significant difference was observed between the groups in dual-task performance. These findings emphasize the effects of sarcopenia on physical function.