Association of periodontitis with handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass in middle-aged US adults from NHANES 2013-2014.

OBJECTIVES: The relationship between periodontitis and sarcopenia parameters in middle-aged adults is largely unexplored. This study investigated the association between periodontitis and combined handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass in middle-aged adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sub-cohort of 1912 individuals with complete periodontal and whole-body dual X-ray absorptiometry examinations from the 2013-2014 wave of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 10,175) were analyzed using fully adjusted multiple linear regression models for associations between periodontitis and skeletal muscle mass index (kg/m2) and combined handgrip strength (kg). RESULTS: The mean age of the study cohort was 43 (± 8.4) years and 49.4% of the participants were male. In total, 612 participants (32%) were determined to have periodontitis, of which 513 (26.8%) had non-severe (mild or moderate) periodontitis, and 99 (5.2%) had severe periodontitis. In unadjusted regression models, both non-severe and severe periodontitis were associated with SMMI (ßnon-severe = 1.01, 95% CI 0.50; 1.52 and ßsevere = 1.42, 95% CI 0.59; 2.25) but not with cHGS. After adjusting for age, sex, education, body mass index, bone mineral density, diabetic status, education, total energy intake, total protein intake, and serum vitamin D2 + D3, periodontitis was associated with cHGS (ßnon-severe = -2.81, 95% CI - 4.7; - 1.15 and ßsevere = - 2.73, 95% CI - 6.31; 0.83). The association between periodontitis and SMMI remained for non-severe periodontitis (ßnon-severe = 0.07, 95% CI - 0.26; 0.40 and ßsevere = 0.22, 95% CI - 0.34; 0.78). CONCLUSION: The present study highlights the need of further prospective research to investigate the nature and direction of the relationship between periodontitis and sarcopenia indicators. Future studies can support the screening, prevention and clinical management of sarcopenia and periodontitis, and emphasize the interdisciplinary and complementary approach between the disciplines of geriatric medicine and periodontology.

Sarcopenia and health-related quality of life: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The decrease of physical abilities and functional decline that can be caused by musculoskeletal conditions such as sarcopenia, can lead to higher levels of dependency and disability. Therefore, it may influence patient reported outcome measures (PROM), such as the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between sarcopenia and HRQoL. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed throughout the whole process of this work. A protocol was previously published on PROSPERO. The electronic databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Allied and Complementary Medicine (AMED), EMB Review - ACP Journal Club, EBM Review - Cochrane Central of Register of Controlled Trials and APA PsychInfo were searched until October 2022 for observational studies reporting a HRQoL assessment in both sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic individuals. Study selection and data extraction were carried out by two independent researchers. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model, reporting an overall standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic individuals. Study quality was measured using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the strength of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. The search strategy identified 3725 references from which 43 observational studies were eligible and included in this meta-synthesis study. A significantly lower HRQoL was observed for sarcopenic individuals compared with non-sarcopenic ones (SMD -0.76; 95% CI -0.95; -0.57). Significant heterogeneity was associated with the model (I2  = 93%, Q test P-value <0.01). Subgroup analysis showed a higher effect size when using the specific questionnaire SarQoL compared with generic questionnaires (SMD -1.09; 95% CI -1.44; -0.74 with the SarQoL versus -0.49; 95% CI -0.63; -0.36 with generic tools; P-value for interaction <0.01). A greater difference of HRQoL between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic was found for individuals residing in care homes compared with community-dwelling individuals (P-value for interaction <0.001). No differences were found between age groups, diagnostic techniques, and continents/regions. The level of evidence was rated as moderate using the GRADE assessment. This systematic review and meta-analysis combining 43 observational studies shows that HRQoL is significantly reduced in sarcopenic patients. The use of disease-specific HRQoL instruments may better discriminate sarcopenic patients with respect to their quality of life.

Role of vitamin D supplementation in the management of musculoskeletal diseases: update from an European Society of Clinical and Economical Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ESCEO) working group.

Vitamin D is a key component for optimal growth and for calcium-phosphate homeostasis. Skin photosynthesis is the main source of vitamin D. Limited sun exposure and insufficient dietary vitamin D supply justify vitamin D supplementation in certain age groups. In older adults, recommended doses for vitamin D supplementation vary between 200 and 2000 IU/day, to achieve a goal of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcifediol) of at least 50 nmol/L. The target level depends on the population being supplemented, the assessed system, and the outcome. Several recent large randomized trials with oral vitamin D regimens varying between 2000 and 100,000 IU/month and mostly conducted in vitamin D-replete and healthy individuals have failed to detect any efficacy of these approaches for the prevention of fracture and falls. Considering the well-recognized major musculoskeletal disorders associated with severe vitamin D deficiency and taking into account a possible biphasic effects of vitamin D on fracture and fall risks, an European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ESCEO) working group convened, carefully reviewed, and analyzed the meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials on the effects of vitamin D on fracture risk, falls or osteoarthritis, and came to the conclusion that 1000 IU daily should be recommended in patients at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. The group also addressed the identification of patients possibly benefitting from a vitamin D loading dose to achieve early 25-hydroxyvitamin D therapeutic level or from calcifediol administration.

Mild cognitive impairment: when nutrition helps brain energy rescue-a report from the EuGMS 2020 Congress.

BACKGROUND: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by a decline in cognition and mainly affects older individuals above the age of 60. The global incidence of MCI varies, but it is often underdiagnosed and untreated. There is a distinct lack of approved pharmacologic options to treat MCI. There is, however, evidence to support the efficacy of nutritional interventions, such as ketogenic supplements/diets, which offer ketones as an alternative energy source to brain cells. This article explores the effect of ketones on metabolic activity in the brain and the mechanisms by which ketogenic medium-chain triglycerides (kMCTs) induce ketosis in patients with MCI. KEY TAKEAWAYS: This article reviews the effect of ketogenic supplements/diets on brain metabolism, including evidence supporting the efficacy of ketones as an efficient fuel for the brain. It discusses the use of oral nutritional ketogenic supplements, with particular reference to the 6-month randomized controlled BENEFIC trial, which showed that consumption of a kMCT drink, BrainXpert Energy Complex, improved cognitive performance in individuals with MCI compared with placebo. CONCLUSION: While there is a need for more long-term studies, results from the BENEFIC trial revealed the benefits of a brain-specific ketogenic supplement, as a nutritional intervention, on cognitive performance in individuals with MCI.

Results of High-Protein, High-Calorie Oral Nutritional Supplementation in Malnourished Older People in Nursing Homes: An Observational, Multicenter, Prospective, Pragmatic Study (PROT-e-GER).

OBJECTIVES: To assess if the impact of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) on nutritional and functional status in malnourished older persons living in nursing homes shown by clinical trials are also found outside a trial setting. DESIGN: Observational, multicenter, prospective, pragmatic study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: This study was carried out in 38 nursing homes throughout Spain. Nursing home physicians recruited consecutive residents, older than 65 years, with a diagnosis of malnutrition, when a clinical decision to start ONS had been taken after unsuccessful initial management with dietary interventions. INTERVENTION: The participants received daily 2 bottles of an energy-rich, high-protein commercial ONS for 3 months. MEASURES: Primary outcomes were changes in nutritional status [body weight, body mass index (BMI), and Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF)]; secondary outcomes were functional changes [Functional Ambulation Classification, Barthel index, handgrip strength, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB)], as well as safety and adherence after 12 weeks of follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 282 residents (median age 86 years, 67% women) were included, and 244 (86.5%) completed the follow-up. At baseline, 77.3% of the participants were malnourished (BMI 19.7 kg/m2, interquartile range 18.3-21.8). After 12 weeks of follow-up, participants experienced significant increases in body weight (2.6 ± 3.1 kg, 5.2 ± 5.9%), BMI (1.0 ± 1.2 kg/m2) and MNA-SF (4.0 ± 2.5 points). There were also significant improvements in functional status measured by the Barthel index, handgrip strength, SPPB, and gait speed. Good adherence was registered in 94.6% of the participants. No relevant side effects were found. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Improvements in nutritional and functional status can be found when using a high-protein, high-calorie ONS in older undernourished people living in nursing homes.

ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate supplementation in older persons - an update.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The interest in the use of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) as an intervention to prevent and treat sarcopenia has increased over recent years. The purpose of this review is to explore recent evidence pertaining to the mechanism of action of HMB and how this may influence changes in lean mass and strength in older persons who are both hospitalized and living in the community. RECENT FINDINGS: No new studies have been published over the last 2 years investigating the effect of HMB in older persons who are hospitalized, aside from one posthoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial exploring the effect of a high protein oral nutrition supplement containing HMB on handgrip strength and nutritional status. Three studies recruiting community-dwelling older adults have been published, but results are influenced by suboptimal methodological quality. SUMMARY: Recent data suggest the need for high-quality studies investigating the effectiveness of HMB to improve outcomes related to sarcopenia in both hospitalized and community-dwelling older persons.

Non-pharmacological, non-surgical interventions for urinary incontinence in older persons: A systematic review of systematic reviews. The SENATOR project ONTOP series.

BACKGROUND: Urinary incontinence is especially common in older age. Non-pharmacological therapies are particularly desirable in this group. OBJECTIVE: To define optimal evidence-based non-pharmacological, non-surgical therapies for urinary incontinence in older persons. METHODS: A Delphi process determined critical outcome measures of interest. Studies of any non-pharmacological intervention reporting critical outcomes were identified through database searches for relevant systematic reviews in Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Cochrane up to June 2018. Primary trials with a population mean age ≥65years were identified, from which data were extracted and risk of bias was assessed. Qualitative analysis and meta-analysis, when possible, were undertaken, followed by grading of the evidence using GradePro software. Finally, bullet-point recommendations were formulated for the indications and contraindications for non-pharmacological interventions for urinary incontinence in older persons. RESULTS: Frequency of incontinence was identified as a critically important outcome. In total, 33 systematic reviews were identified with 27 primary trials meeting inclusion criteria. Evaluated therapies included exercise therapy, habit retraining, behavioural therapy, electrical stimulation, transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, magnetic stimulation, caffeine reduction and acupuncture. From meta-analysis, group exercise therapy and behavioural therapy in women were beneficial in reducing episodes of incontinence (mean reduction of 1.07 (95 %CI 0.69-1.45) and 0.74 (95 %CI 0.42-1.06) episodes per day respectively, evidence grade 'moderate'). Evidence for other interventions was limited and of insufficient quality. CONCLUSIONS: There is sufficient evidence to warrant recommendation of group exercise therapy for stress incontinence and behavioural therapy for urgency, stress or mixed urinary incontinence in older women. Evidence was insufficient to recommend any other non-drug therapy.

Nutritional strategies for maintaining muscle mass and strength from middle age to later life: A narrative review.

Progressive age-related reductions in muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia) can cause substantial morbidity. This narrative review summarizes evidence of nutritional interventions for maintaining muscle mass and strength from midlife through old age. PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched to identify studies of dietary intake and nutritional interventions for sustaining muscle mass and strength. The benefits of progressive resistance training with and without dietary interventions are well documented. Protein and amino acid (particularly leucine) intake should be considered, and supplementation may be warranted for those not meeting recommended intakes. Vitamin D receptors are expressed in muscle tissue; meta-analyses have shown that vitamin D benefits muscle strength. Data suggest that milk and other dairy products containing different bioactive compounds (i.e. protein, leucine) can enhance muscle protein synthesis, particularly when combined with resistance exercise. Omega-3 s can improve muscle mass and strength by mediating cell signaling and inflammation-related oxidative damage; no studies were specifically conducted in sarcopenia. Low-dose antioxidants (e.g. vitamins C and E) can protect muscle tissue from oxidative damage, but relevant studies are limited. Magnesium is involved with muscle contraction processes, and data have shown benefits to muscle strength. Acidogenic diets increase muscle protein breakdown, which is exacerbated by aging. Alkalizing compounds (e.g. bicarbonates) can promote muscle strength. Small studies of probiotics and plant extracts have generated interest, but few large studies have been conducted. Based on available data, dietary and supplemental interventions may add to the benefits of exercise on muscle mass and strength; effects independent of exercise have not been consistently shown.

Effects of high-protein, high-calorie oral nutritional supplementation in malnourished older people in nursing homes: An observational, multi-center, prospective study (PROT-e-GER). Protocol and baseline population characteristics.

INTRODUCTION: Malnutrition is common among older people living in nursing homes. Poor nutritional status is associated with functional loss and with worse health. Oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) can be an effective means to counteract weight loss, improve nutritional status and reduce complications in malnourished older people living in nursing homes. The main objective of this study was to assess whether ONS over 12 weeks improved the nutritional status and physical function of malnourished older people living in nursing homes. METHODS: This was a multi-center, prospective, observational study carried out in 53 nursing homes in Spain. Participants were aged 65 or over. They were prescribed a high-calorie, high-protein ONS to treat well documented malnutrition. Subjects who received enteral nutrition, had special nutritional requirements, or receiving end-of-life care were excluded. Anthropometric data were recorded (weight, height and BMI) as well as scores on nutritional and functional scales (MNA-SF, Barthel index, SPPB, grip strength and Functional Ambulation Categories, FAC) at the beginning of the study and after 12 weeks. Cognitive status, comorbidities and depressive symptoms were also assessed. Frailty status was assessed using the FRAIL scale. RESULTS: 320 participants were included, of whom 253 completed the study (mean age 84.2 ± 7.1 years). Baseline BMI was 20.2 ± 2.8. A high prevalence of functional impairment (Barthel Index median 45, range 15-75; median SPPB 4, range 1-6) and cognitive impairment (MMSE median 12, 7-20) was found. DISCUSSION: This study identified a population with malnutrition and a high degree of physical and mental disability that mirrors the typical population of many nursing homes. Analysis of the results of this study will help to determine the factors associated with malnutrition and the effect of nutritional intervention in practice.

Planning to reduce 30-day adverse events after discharge of frail elderly patients with acute heart failure: design and rationale for the DEED FRAIL-AHF trial. / Planificación del alta desde urgencias para reducir eventos adversos a 30 días en pacientes mayores frágiles con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda: diseño y justificación del ensayo clínico DEED FRAIL-AHF.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the efficacy of a system for comprehensive care transfer (Multilevel Guided Discharge Plan [MGDP]) for frail older patients diagnosed with acute heart failure (AHF) and to validate the results of MGDP implementation under real clinical conditions. The MGDP seeks to reduce the number of adverse outcomes within 30 days of emergency department (ED) discharge. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We will enroll frail patients over the age of 70 years discharged home from the ED with a main diagnosis of AHF. The MGDP includes the following components: 1) a checklist of clinical recommendations and resource activations, 2) scheduling of an early follow-up visit, 3) transfer of information to the primary care doctor, and 4) written instructions for the patient. Phase 1 of the study will be a matched-pair cluster-randomized controlled trial. Ten EDs will be randomly assigned to the intervention group and 10 to the control group. Each group will enroll 480 patients, and the outcomes will be compared between groups. Phase 2 will be a quasi-experimental study of the intervention in 300 new patients enrolled by the same 20 EDs. The outcomes will be compared to those for each Phase-1 group. The main endpoint at 30 days will be a composite of 2 outcomes: revisits to an ED and/for hospitalization for AHF or cardiovascular death. CONCLUSION: The study will assess the efficacy and feasibility of comprehensive MGDP transfer of care for frail older AHF patients discharged home.

OBJETIVO: Demostrar la eficacia de una intervención integral en la transición de cuidados (Plan de Alta Guiado Multinivel, PAGM) para disminuir eventos adversos a 30 días en ancianos frágiles con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) dados de alta desde servicios de urgencias (SU) y validar los resultados de dicha intervención en condiciones reales. METODO: Se seleccionarán pacientes 70 años frágiles con diagnóstico principal de ICA dados del alta a su domicilio desde SU. La intervención consistirá en aplicar un PAGM: 1) lista de verificación sobre recomendaciones clínicas y activación de recursos; 2) programación de visita precoz; 3) transmisión de información a atención primaria; 4) hoja de instrucciones al paciente por escrito. Fase 1: ensayo clínico con asignación al azar por conglomerados emparejado. Se asignará de forma aleatoria 10 SU (N = 480) al grupo de intervención y 10 SU (N = 480) al grupo de control. Se compararán los resultados entre grupo de intervención y control. Fase 2: estudio cuasi-experimental. Se realizará la intervención en los 20 SU (N = 300). Se comparará los resultados entre la fase 1 y 2 del grupo de intervención y entre la fase 1 y 2 del grupo de control. La variable principal de resultado es compuesta (revisita a urgencias u hospitalización por ICA o mortalidad de origen cardiovascular) a los 30 días del alta. CONCLUSIONES: El estudio valorará la eficacia y factibilidad de una intervención integral en la transición de cuidados para reducir resultados adversos a 30 días en ancianos frágiles con ICA dados de alta desde los SU.

Efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions to treat malnutrition in older persons: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The SENATOR project ONTOP series and MaNuEL knowledge hub project.

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to perform a review of SRs of non-pharmacological interventions in older patients with well-defined malnutrition using relevant outcomes agreed by a broad panel of experts. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, and CINHAL databases were searched for SRs. Primary studies from those SRs were included. Quality assessment was undertaken using Cochrane and GRADE criteria. RESULTS: Eighteen primary studies from seventeen SRs were included. Eleven RCTs compared oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) with usual care. No beneficial effects of ONS treatment, after performing two meta-analysis in body weight changes (six studies), mean difference: 0.59 (95%CI -0.08, 1.96) kg, and in body mass index changes (two studies), mean difference: 0.31 (95%CI -0.17, 0.79) kg/m2 were found. Neither in MNA scores, muscle strength, activities of daily living, timed Up&Go, quality of life and mortality. Results of other intervention studies (dietary counselling and ONS, ONS combined with exercise, nutrition delivery systems) were inconsistent. The overall quality of the evidence was very low due to risk of bias and small sample size. CONCLUSIONS: This review has highlighted the lack of high quality evidence to indicate which interventions are effective in treating malnutrition in older people. High quality research studies are urgently needed in this area.

The Underappreciated Role of Low Muscle Mass in the Management of Malnutrition.

Preserving muscle is not only crucial for maintaining proper physical movement, but also for its many metabolic and homeostatic roles. Low muscle mass has been shown to adversely affect health outcomes in a variety of disease states (eg, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease) and leads to an increased risk for readmission and mortality in hospitalized patients. Low muscle mass is now included in the most recent diagnostic criteria for malnutrition. Current management strategies for malnutrition may not prioritize the maintenance and restoration of muscle mass. This likely reflects the challenge of identifying and measuring this body composition compartment in clinical practice and the lack of awareness by health care professionals of the importance that muscle plays in patient health outcomes. As such, we provide a review of current approaches and make recommendations for managing low muscle mass and preventing muscle loss in clinical practice. Recommendations to assist the clinician in the optimal management of patients at risk of low muscle mass include the following: (1) place muscle mass at the core of nutritional assessment and management strategies; (2) identify and assess low muscle mass; (3) develop a management pathway for patients at risk of low muscle mass; (4) optimize nutrition to focus on muscle mass gain versus weight gain alone; and (5) promote exercise and/or rehabilitation therapy to help maintain and build muscle mass. The need to raise awareness of the importance of screening and managing 'at risk' patients so it becomes routine is imperative for change to occur. Health systems need to drive clinicians to treat patients with this focused approach, and the economic benefits need to be communicated to payers. Lastly, further focused research in the area of managing patients with low muscle mass is warranted.

Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methyl Butyrate (HMB): From Experimental Data to Clinical Evidence in Sarcopenia.

ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite derived from leucine and its ketoacid alpha- ketoisocaproate. Leucine has a role in regulating protein synthesis in muscle cells, and HMB seems to be a key active metabolite in such regulation. HMB has been shown to modulate muscle protein degradation by inhibiting the ubiquitin-proteasome proteolytic pathway, to up-regulate protein synthesis via the mTOR pathway, and to stabilize cell membranes via the rate limiting enzyme to cholesterol synthesis HMG- coenzyme A reductase. It can also decrease cell apoptosis, therefore improving cell survival; and increase proliferation and differentiation of muscle stem cell, via the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt pathways. HMB is widely used as an ergogenic supplement by athletes and bodybuilders, usually combined with exercise training, to increase muscle mass and strength. Some studies have explored the role of HMB in chronic diseases associated with muscle wasting (cancer, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). This review focuses on the role of HMB in the management of sarcopenia (age or disease-related loss of muscle mass and function) in older persons. A small number of studies have shown increases in lean (muscle) mass and some muscle function and physical performance parameters in older people with or without resistance exercise, and preservation of muscle mass during bed rest. However, heterogeneous methodological approaches preclude solid conclusions, and more studies are needed to confirm the role of HMB as a promising agent to treat sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia: what should a pharmacist know? / Sarcopenia: ¿qué tiene que saber un farmacéutico?

Sarcopenia (or muscle insufficiency) is a geriatric syndrome characterized by a progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and function which has adverse consequences, particularly physical disability, falls and death. It can develop slowly, as a chronic condition that emerges over many years, or acutely, generally due to immobilization associated with an acute disease. The physiopathology of sarcopenia is complex, and affects both the muscle and its neurological and hormonal regulation. The prevalence of sarcopenia increases with age and in certain healthcare settings (nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centres). Its diagnosis is based on the documentation of a low muscle mass associated with low muscle strength and/or low physical performance. Once confirmed, a syndromic approach is needed, based on a comprehensive geriatric assessment in order to determine its causes and prepare a treatment plan which addresses the treatment of symptoms as well as the etiology. Prevention of sarcopenia starts in the adult age, through the promotion of adequate nutritional habits, an increase in physical activity and, ideally, resistance exercise. Sarcopenia treatment must necessarily include resistance exercises (that can be associated with other types of exercise) and an improvement in diet, increasing protein intake up to 1.2-1.5 g/kg/day and covering caloric requirements. In some cases, this will require the use of nutritional supplements, which can contain leucine, beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate acid (HMB) and vitamin D, in order to optimize its effects on the muscle. There are still no medications available to treat sarcopenia (AU)

La sarcopenia (o insuficiencia muscular) es un síndrome geriátrico caracterizado por una pérdida progresiva y generalizada de masa y función del músculo esquelético que tiene consecuencias adversas, especialmente la discapacidad física, las caídas y la muerte. Puede producirse de forma crónica, a lo largo de muchos años, o aguda, generalmente por una inmovilización asociada a una enfermedad aguda. La fisiopatología de la sarcopenia es compleja y afecta tanto al músculo como a su regulación neurológica y hormonal. La prevalencia de la sarcopenia aumenta con la edad y en determinados entornos asistenciales (residencias, hospitales, centros de rehabilitación). Su diagnóstico se basa en la documentación de una baja masa muscular asociada a baja fuerza muscular y/o bajo rendimiento físico. Una vez se confirma, es preciso adoptar un enfoque sindrómico y usar una valoración geriátrica integral para determinar sus causas y elaborar un plan de tratamiento que incluya tanto el tratamiento de los síntomas como el etiológico. La prevención de la sarcopenia comienza en la edad adulta, a través de la promoción de hábitos de alimentación correctos, un aumento de la actividad física e, idealmente, ejercicios de resistencia. El tratamiento de la sarcopenia debe incluir necesariamente ejercicios de resistencia (que pueden asociarse a otros tipos de ejercicio) y la mejora de la dieta, aumentando la ingesta proteica hasta 1,2-1,5 g/kg/día y cubriendo los requerimientos calóricos. En algunos casos será preciso para ello el uso de suplementos nutricionales, que pueden contener leucina, ácido β-hidroxi β-metilbutírico (HMB) y vitamina D, para optimizar sus efectos en el músculo. Aún no disponemos de medicamentos para tratar la sarcopenia (AU)

Sarcopenia: what should a pharmacist know?

Sarcopenia (or muscle insufficiency) is a geriatric syndrome characterized by a progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and function which has adverse consequences, particularly physical disability, falls and death. It can develop slowly, as a chronic condition that emerges over many years, or acutely, generally due to immobilization associated with an acute disease. The physiopathology of sarcopenia is complex, and affects both the muscle and its neurological and hormonal regulation. The prevalence of sarcopenia increases with age and in certain healthcare settings (nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centres). Its diagnosis is based on the documentation of a low muscle mass associated with low muscle strength and/or low physical performance. Once confirmed, a syndromic approach is needed, based on a comprehensive geriatric assessment in order to determine its causes and prepare a treatment plan which addresses the treatment of symptoms as well as the etiology. Prevention of sarcopenia starts in the adult age, through the promotion of adequate nutritional habits, an increase in physical activity and, ideally, resistance exercise. Sarcopenia treatment must necessarily include resistance exercises (that can be associated with other types of exercise) and an improvement in diet, increasing protein intake up to 1.2-1.5 g/kg/day and covering caloric requirements. In some cases, this will require the use of nutritional supplements, which can contain leucine, beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate acid (HMB) and vitamin D, in order to optimize its effects on the muscle. There are still no medications available to treat sarcopenia.

La sarcopenia (o insuficiencia muscular) es un síndrome geriátrico caracterizado por una pérdida progresiva y generalizada de masa y función del músculo esquelético que tiene consecuencias adversas, especialmente la discapacidad física, las caídas y la muerte. Puede producirse de forma crónica, a lo largo de muchos años, o aguda, generalmente por una inmovilización asociada a una enfermedad aguda.La fisiopatología de la sarcopenia es compleja y afecta tanto al músculo como a su regulación neurológica y hormonal.La prevalencia de la sarcopenia aumenta con la edad y en determinados entornos asistenciales (residencias, hospitales, centros de rehabilitación). Su diagnóstico se basa en la documentación de una baja masa muscular asociada a baja fuerza muscular y/o bajo rendimiento físico. Una vez se confirma, es preciso adoptar un enfoque sindrómico y usar una valoración geriátrica integral para determinar sus causas y elaborar un plan de tratamiento que incluya tanto el tratamiento de los síntomas como el etiológico. La prevención de la sarcopenia comienza en la edad adulta, a través de la promoción de hábitos de alimentación correctos, un aumento de la actividad física e, idealmente, ejercicios de resistencia. El tratamiento de la sarcopenia debe incluir necesariamente ejercicios de resistencia (que pueden asociarse a otros tipos de ejercicio) y la mejora de la dieta, aumentando la ingesta proteica hasta 1,2-1,5 g/kg/día y cubriendo los requerimientos calóricos. En algunos casos será preciso para ello el uso de suplementos nutricionales, que pueden contener leucina, ácido ß-hidroxi ß-metilbutírico (HMB) y vitamina D, para optimizar sus efectos en el músculo. Aún no disponemos de medicamentos para tratar la sarcopenia.

Nonpharmacological interventions to treat physical frailty and sarcopenia in older patients: a systematic overview - the SENATOR Project ONTOP Series.

BACKGROUND: Physical frailty (PF) and sarcopenia are predictors of negative health outcomes such as falls, disability, hospitalization, and death. Some systematic reviews (SRs) have been published on different nonpharmacological treatments of frailty and sarcopenia using heterogeneous definitions of them. OBJECTIVE: To critically appraise the evidence from SRs of the primary studies on nonpharmacological interventions to treat PF (defined by Fried's frailty phenotype) and sarcopenia (defined by the EWGSOP) in older patients. DESIGN: Overview of SRs and meta-analysis of comparative studies. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched in October 2015. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES: SRs that included at least one comparative study evaluating any nonpharmacological intervention to treat PF or sarcopenia in older patients in any health care setting. Any primary study described in these SRs with experimental design was included. DATA EXTRACTION AND MANAGEMENT: Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-texts of articles. Quality assessment was carried out by using criteria from the Cochrane Collaboration and the GRADE working group. RESULTS: Ten SRs with 5 primary studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. The most frequent interventions in the included studies were physical exercise (4) and nutritional supplementation (2). Muscle strength (MS; except for one study in a frail population) and physical performance (PP; except for another study in a frail population) improved with exercise and amino acid supplementation in frail and sarcopenic old adults. Falls and activities of daily living were assessed in two studies with opposite results. The overall quality of the evidence was low. CONCLUSION: This overview of SRs highlights the importance of exercise interventions with or without nutritional supplementation to improve the PP in community-dwelling patients aged >65 years with PF and sarcopenia. MS improved with multidisciplinary treatment and exercise interventions in this population.

IAGG/IAGG GARN International Survey of End-of-Life Care in Nursing Homes.

This article reports the findings of a survey on end-of-life (EOL) care in nursing homes of 18 long-term care experts across 15 countries. The experts were chosen as a convenience-based sample of known experts in each country. The survey was administered in 2016 and included both open-ended responses for defining hospice care, palliative care, and "end of life," and a series of questions related to the following areas-attitudes toward EOL care, current practice and EOL interventions, structure of care, and routine barriers. Overall experts strongly agreed that hospice and palliative care should be available in long-term care facilities and that both are defined by holistic, interdisciplinary approaches using measures of comfort across domains. However, it appears the experts felt that in most countries the reality fell short of what they believed would be ideal care. As a result, experts call for increased training, communication, and access to specialized EOL services within the nursing home.

Systematic review of systematic reviews of non-pharmacological interventions to treat behavioural disturbances in older patients with dementia. The SENATOR-OnTop series.

OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of non-pharmacological interventions for behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD). DESIGN: Systematic overview of reviews. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL and PsycINFO (2009-March 2015). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Systematic reviews (SRs) that included at least one comparative study evaluating any non-pharmacological intervention, to treat BPSD. DATA EXTRACTION: Eligible studies were selected and data extracted independently by 2 reviewers.The AMSTAR checklist was used to assess the quality of the SRs. DATA ANALYSIS: Extracted data were synthesised using a narrative approach. RESULTS: 38 SRs and 129 primary studies were identified, comprising the following categories of non-pharmacological interventions: (1) sensory stimulation interventions (25 SRs, 66 primary studies) that encompassed: shiatsu and acupressure, aromatherapy, massage/touch therapy, light therapy, sensory garden and horticultural activities, music/dance therapy, dance therapy, snoezelen multisensory stimulation therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation; (2) cognitive/emotion-oriented interventions (13 SRs; 26 primary studies) that included cognitive stimulation, reminiscence therapy, validation therapy, simulated presence therapy; (3) behaviour management techniques (6 SRs; 22 primary studies); (4) Multicomponent interventions (3 SR; four primary studies); (5) other therapies (5 SRs, 15 primary studies) comprising exercise therapy, animal-assisted therapy, special care unit and dining room environment-based interventions. CONCLUSIONS: A large number of non-pharmacological interventions for BPSD were identified. The majority of the studies had great variation in how the same type of intervention was defined and applied, the follow-up duration, the type of outcome measured, usually with modest sample size. Overall, music therapy and behavioural management techniques were effective for reducing BPSD.

Impacts of High-Protein Oral Nutritional Supplements Among Malnourished Men and Women with Sarcopenia: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Recent evidence suggests that nutritional interventions may improve muscle outcomes in malnutrition and sarcopenia. OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the effects of 2 high-quality oral nutritional supplements (ONS) differing in amount and type of key nutrients in older adult men and women. DESIGN: A multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS: Malnourished and sarcopenic men and women, 65 years and older (n = 330). INTERVENTION: A 24-week intervention period with 2 energy-rich (330 kcal) ONS treatment groups: Control ONS (CONS, 14 g protein; 147 IU vitamin D3) versus Experimental ONS (EONS, 20 g protein; 499 IU vitamin D3; 1.5 g CaHMB) taken twice daily. Both ONS also contained other vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in varying amounts. MEASUREMENTS: Isokinetic peak torque (PT, Nm) leg strength, grip strength (kg), and gait speed (m·s-1) were assessed at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks. Left and right leg muscle mass (LMM, kg) were assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Muscle quality (MQ) was leg strength expressed relative to the tested LMM (Nm·kg-1). Subgroup analyses were performed: severe sarcopenia (low skeletal mass index, low grip strength [<30 kg men; <20 kg women], low gait speed [<0.8 m·s-1]) and mild-moderate sarcopenia (low skeletal mass index, normal gait speed, or normal grip strength). RESULTS: Both ONS groups (EONS and CONS) improved PT, MQ, grip strength, and gait speed from baseline with no treatment differences. Those with severe sarcopenia (44%) exhibited lower baseline PT and MQ, with no differences in strength improvements between treatments. However, participants with mild-moderate sarcopenia exhibited higher baseline PT and MQ, with differences in strength improvements at 12 weeks (EONS > CONS, P = .032) in those with normal grip strength. There were no treatment differences based on sarcopenic severity for either grip strength or gait speed. CONCLUSION: ONS improved strength outcomes in malnourished older adults with sarcopenia. In those with mild-moderate sarcopenia, but not severe sarcopenia, consumption of the EONS improved leg muscle strength and quality compared with the standard CONS.

Efficacy of Non-Pharmacological Interventions to Prevent and Treat Delirium in Older Patients: A Systematic Overview. The SENATOR project ONTOP Series.

BACKGROUND: Non-pharmacological intervention (e.g. multidisciplinary interventions, music therapy, bright light therapy, educational interventions etc.) are alternative interventions that can be used in older subjects. There are plenty reviews of non-pharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of delirium in older patients and clinicians need a synthesized, methodologically sound document for their decision making. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We performed a systematic overview of systematic reviews (SRs) of comparative studies concerning non-pharmacological intervention to treat or prevent delirium in older patients. The PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, CINHAL, and PsychINFO (April 28th, 2014) were searched for relevant articles. AMSTAR was used to assess the quality of the SRs. The GRADE approach was used to assess the quality of primary studies. The elements of the multicomponent interventions were identified and compared among different studies to explore the possibility of performing a meta-analysis. Risk ratios were estimated using a random-effects model. Twenty-four SRs with 31 primary studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. Based on the AMSTAR criteria twelve reviews resulted of moderate quality and three resulted of high quality. Overall, multicomponent non-pharmacological interventions significantly reduced the incidence of delirium in surgical wards [2 randomized trials (RCTs): relative risk (RR) 0.71, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.59 to 0.86, I2=0%; (GRADE evidence: moderate)] and in medical wards [2 CCTs: RR 0.65, 95%CI 0.49 to 0.86, I2=0%; (GRADE evidence: moderate)]. There is no evidence supporting the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions to prevent delirium in low risk populations (i.e. low rate of delirium in the control group)[1 RCT: RR 1.75, 95%CI 0.50 to 6.10 (GRADE evidence: very low)]. For patients who have developed delirium, the available evidence does not support the efficacy of multicomponent non-pharmacological interventions to treat delirium. Among single component interventions only staff education, reorientation protocol (GRADE evidence: very low)] and Geriatric Risk Assessment MedGuide software [hazard ratio 0.42, 95%CI 0.35 to 0.52, (GRADE evidence: moderate)] resulted effective in preventing delirium. CONCLUSIONS: In older patients multi-component non-pharmacological interventions as well as some single-components intervention were effective in preventing delirium but not to treat delirium.