700 Section - Rehabilitation Service for Older Adults with Locomotor Problems and Sarcopenia: Insights from a Geriatric Cohort

Locomotor problems and sarcopenia are prevalent in older adults, contributing to functional decline and disability. We analyzed a geriatric cohort to determine prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes following advanced rehabilitation assessment and home-based interventions.

Design: Independent adults aged ≥60 years attending a comprehensive geriatric check-up clinic during May 2022 to June 2024 were screened. Locomotor problems were defined as gait speed < 1.2 m/s, TUG >12 s, or ≥1 fall in the past year; sarcopenia was diagnosed by AWGS criteria. Referred patients to rehabilitation service underwent short physical performance battery test (SPPB) and Biodex balance assessment, received individualized home-based programs, and were followed up for fall and functional changes.

Results:
Of 2,233 screened, 607 were referred: 41% had locomotor problems, 32% sarcopenia, 6% both, and 21% other issues (e.g., pain) but intact locomotor screening, defined as the robust group for comparison. Combined locomotor–sarcopenia cases were the oldest and had the highest fall risk and events. Patients with limited mobility had lower muscle strength than robust peers, though not meeting sarcopenia thresholds. Among 147 followed up, most maintained or improved status; however, 15% reported more falls and 30% declined in function. Those in the functional decline group had significantly poorer baseline mCTSIB composite scores compared with others.


Conclusion: Most older adults referred for rehabilitation maintained or improved mobility and fall outcomes after assessment and home exercise advice. However, a notable proportion declined, with poorer baseline performance on advanced balance tests being a significant predictor. Incorporating sensitive balance assessments into routine screening may help detect subtle mobility deficits in otherwise healthy older adults.