Association between Balance Function and Sarcopenia in Elderly Heart Failure Patients

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between standing balance function and sarcopenia in hospitalized older patients with stable heart failure. [Participants and Methods] Forty-five hospitalized older patients with stable heart failure were included in this study. Data on age, Body Mass Index, ambulatory ability, comorbidities, medication status, and left ventricular ejection fraction were collected. Standing balance was assessed using the Cross Test (effective base of support). Sarcopenia was evaluated using the skeletal muscle mass index, handgrip strength, and five-times sit-to-stand test. [Results] Standing balance function declined with sarcopenia, and sarcopenia severity was a significant associated factor. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the standing balance function of hospitalized older patients with stable heart failure is associated with the severity of sarcopenia.