Análisis de la condición física y sarcopenia en adultos mayores residentes del Hogar San José.

Abstract

As time passes, the aging process involves alterations in the body along with the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, a condition known as sarcopenia. This condition is the result of various factors, including reduced physical activity, hormonal changes, and genetic factors. The main objective is to analyze the physical condition and sarcopenia of elderly residents at Hogar San José. Materials and methods: This research is of a descriptive, observational nature with a quantitative approach, employing a non-experimental cross-sectional design. Data were obtained through dynamometry, BMI measurements, bioimpedance, and the Alusti Test applied to 59 patients. The most relevant results obtained are as follows: the digital dynamometry assessment revealed that the female gender exhibited a reduced strength of 61%, while the male gender showed 20% and 19% in normal strength. The BMI of the investigated population at Hogar San José indicated that 56% fell into the underweight category, while 24% fell within the normal skeletal muscle mass index (IMME) category. The Alusti Test, which determines physical performance, showed that the majority of patients maintained a mild dependency at 31%. A study by a European group demonstrated that 56% of older adults presented sarcopenia. Conclusion: Strengthening through exercise and maintaining a healthy diet are effective tactics to prevent the loss of muscle mass and enhance the quality of life.