The evidence for assessing frailty and sarcopenia in an acute medical unit: a systematic review

V Kamwa, A Seccombe, E Sapey

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Background/objectives: A systematic review was conducted to assess if frailty and sarcopenia were associated with poorer outcomes in older adults admitted to an acute medical unit (AMU).

Methods: Eligible studies included older adults with an unplanned admission to an AMU and included a measure of frailty or sarcopenia, completed within 72 hours of admission. Risk of bias was assessed.

Results: Of 1659 identified articles, 16 were included (4 on sarcopenia and 12 on frailty). There was significant study heterogeneity. Overall, frailty and sarcopenia were associated with worse outcomes. Targeted interventions appeared to improve outcomes.

Conclusion: Current evidence suggests some benefit in screening older adults admitted to an AMU for frailty and sarcopenia. However, further studies are required before clinical adoption.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)48-67
Number of pages20
JournalAcute Medicine
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 12 May 2021

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The evidence for assessing frailty and sarcopenia in an acute medical unit: a systematic review'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this