Introduction: Chronic psychiatric inpatients often suffer from comorbid medical conditions, metabolic syndrome, and the effects of prolonged hospitalization, psychiatric medications, and negative symptoms. These factors contribute to reduced physical activity and physiological decline, ultimately affecting daily functional performance. Compared to their peers, they are at a higher risk of developing sarcopenia.
Objectives: To determine the proportion of chronic psychiatric patients with possible sarcopenia using sarcopenia screening tools.
Methods: The study surveyed 57 chronic psychiatric inpatients aged 50 years and older at a specialized psychiatric hospital. Data collection took place in February 2024. The screening tools included the Sarcopenia Risk Assessment Questionnaire (SARC-F), calf circumference, and handgrip strength. According to the recommendations of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS), possible sarcopenia was identified if patients met either of the following criteria: calf circumference (<34 cm for men, <33 cm for women) or SARC-F score (≥4), followed by a handgrip strength assessment (<28 kg for men, <18 kg for women).
Results: The findings revealed that 44 out of 57 chronic psychiatric patients aged 50 and above fell into the category of possible sarcopenia, with a prevalence rate of 77.2%.
Conclusion: Chronic psychiatric inpatients aged 50 and above have a high prevalence (77.2%) of possible sarcopenia. This highlights the need for early screening, intervention, and exercise programs to prevent functional decline and improve their quality of life. Future research should explore effective prevention and treatment strategies.