Evaluating the Impact of a One-Year Exercise Program on Probable Sarcopenia in Older Adults.

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was conducted to examine the effects of a 1-year multicomponent exercise training (MCET) program on the physical function and sarcopenia status of community-dwelling older adults with probable sarcopenia.

Methods: Data of 132 Brazilian community-dwelling older adults with probable sarcopenia were examined. The MCET program was performed twice a week over 1 year. Physical performance evaluations included (i) timed "up-and-go" (TUG), (ii) one-leg stand, (iii) walking speed (WS) at normal pace and fast pace, (iv) 5-time sit-to-stand (5STS) test, and (v) isometric handgrip strength (IHG).

Results: MCET significantly increased TUG (-7.0%), balance (53.0%), 5STS (-10.0%), and WS at normal pace (13.0%). Furthermore, a significant decrease in the prevalence of IHG-based probable sarcopenia was observed (88.6% vs. 67.4%).

Conclusions: Findings of the present study indicate that a 1-year intervention program based on an MCET strategy significantly improved multiple physical performance measures and enhanced sarcopenia status in community-dwelling older adults. These improvements may significantly lower the risk of developing adverse outcomes, such as falls, disability, hospitalization, and death. Therefore, the MCET program tested in this study shows promise as a primary care strategy to reduce the burden of physical decline in community-dwelling older adults.