Screening and Assessment of Sarcopenia in a Rehabilitation Unit for Older People

Background Sarcopenia is a progressive skeletal muscle disorder associated with increased risks of falls, disability and mortality. Although now better recognised in clinical settings, gaps persist between research recommendations and implementation. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) developed a practical algorithm for early identification and management, promoting standardised assessment and intervention (Cruz-Jentoft et al, 2019). This audit is the final in a three-part series evaluating the adherence to EWGSOP2 guidelines by physiotherapists in a short-stay rehabilitation unit for older adults. Methods A single-centred retrospective audit was undertaken between March and June 2023. Data was collected from patients' UHCRs (Universal Healthcare Record) and analysed using Excel. The standards by which the audit was measured against were the guidelines laid out by the EWGSOP2. Results This audit reviewed 87 patient charts, with 3 exclusions, focusing on use of EWGSOP2-recommended tools: the SARC-F questionnaire, chair stand test, grip strength, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. SARC-F was completed in 100% of suitable cases (n=79), with corresponding documentation in all. Muscle strength was assessed in 91% of cases using chair stand; grip strength was used when chair stand was unsuitable. TUG was completed in 98% on admission. Notably, 18.75% of patients with probable sarcopenia improved enough to no longer meet the criteria post-intervention. The proportion of patients classified as severely sarcopenic dropped from 67.7% to 43.1%, reflecting functional gains. Conclusion The audit concludes that physiotherapists in this setting are now fully compliant with EWGSOP2 guidelines for the assessment of sarcopenia. Standardised use of the SARC-F, algorithm-based assessment, and documentation strategies ensure consistent practice. Rehabilitation in this unit leads to measurable improvements in sarcopenia severity, supporting the value of structured, multidisciplinary interventions. Reference 1. Cruz-Jentoft, AJ. et al. Sarcopenia: revised European consensus on definition and diagnosis. Age and ageing 2019;48:16–31. 10.1093/ageing/afy169.