Comparison of Factors Associated with Sarcopenia in Young-Old and Old-Old Adults

Purpose: This study compared the prevalence of sarcopenia and its associated factors between young-old adults (65~74 years) and old-old adults (≥75 years) using nationally representative data from the 2024 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Methods: This cross-sectional secondary analysis included 1,689 older adults, comprising 1,022 young-old and 667 old-old participants. Sarcopenia was defined based on handgrip strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Data were analyzed using complex sample frequency analysis, x² tests, multiple linear regression, and multiple logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of sarcopenia was 6.4% among young-old adults and 23.7% among old-old adults. In both age groups, older age, insufficient participation in strength exercise, depression, and chewing discomfort were significantly associated with sarcopenia. Among old-old adults, low household income, lower body mass index, and inadequate protein intake were additional significant factors associated with sarcopenia. Conclusion: Sarcopenia was substantially more prevalent among old-old adults compared to young-old adults, and its associated factors differed by age group. These findings highlight the importance of developing age-specific. Nursing interventions that address both shared and age-specific risk factors to prevent and manage sarcopenia in older adults.