Prevalence of Sarcopenia and its Risk Factors in Community-dwelling Older People during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Sarcopenia is a state of reduced muscle function that can lead to increased falls, fractures, and mortality in the elderly population. This study aims to identify the prevalence of sarcopenia and its related risk factors in the elderly in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional study investigates sarcopenia, muscle strength, physical performance, fear of COVID-19, distress, and depression in 103 community-dwelling elderly individuals over 65 years of age. The prevalence of sarcopenia among the elderly in the community was 4.8% and 29.1% in men and women, respectively. Age, gender, physical performance, and depression were risk factors for sarcopenia; however, COVID-19-related factors were not significant.