Differences in Muscle Mass between Care Needs Categories 1 and 2

Abstract

[Purpose] To clarify whether or not there are differences between care needs categories 1 and 2 in muscle mass in each region of the body. [Subjects] The subjects were 27 elderly females with care needs: category 1, 17; category 2, 10. [Method] Using the BIA formula for body composition, the muscle masses of the whole body, thighs, lower legs, and trunk were measured, and their average values were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. [Results] No significant differences were found in the general characteristics of the two groups. There were significant differences in all of the muscle masses, except that of the lower legs, between the two groups. [Conclusion] The muscle masses of care needs category 2 subjects were smaller, and we consider that this affects their living behaviors and amounts of physical activity.