The impact of transitional care on geriatric rehabilitation outcomes: prevalence and associated factors of sarcopenia and malnutrition.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Geriatric patients are faced with ongoing care needs after hospitalization. This study evaluated the prevalence of sarcopenia and malnutrition at admission and related clinical characteristics in geriatric inpatients of a transitional care program.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study and a longitudinal observational study were conducted among geriatric inpatients in a retirement home. Sarcopenia was assessed using the Sarcopenia Definitions and Outcomes Consortium criteria, and nutritional status via the Mini Nutrition Assessment. Patient- and clinician-reported outcome measures, including the Barthel Index, EQ-5D-5 L, NPRS, HAQ-DI, 10 m walking test and Timed Up and Go test were collected at admission and discharge (mean stay: 39 ± 22 days). In addition, a 3-month post-discharge follow-up telephone interview was conducted.

RESULTS

Out of 72 geriatric rehabilitation inpatients (mean age: 84 ± 7 years, 83% female), the prevalence of sarcopenia was 80.6%, while 81.2% of patients were malnourished or at risk of malnutrition upon admission. Sarcopenic patients showed reduced health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5 L; p < .05, d = 0.61), greater hand-grip strength asymmetry (68.6%; p < .05), and a trend to have a lower functional ability to perform activities of daily living (HAQ-DI; p = .06). The transitional care program improved quality of life, care needs, and mobility (all p < .001), independently of sarcopenia or malnutrition status.

CONCLUSION

This study showed a high prevalence of sarcopenia and malnutrition in geriatric transitional care inpatients. Despite improvements in function and quality of life, persistent sarcopenia underscores the need for ongoing, individualized interventions such as progressive resistance training combined with nutritional support.