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Effect of a Combined Exercise and Nutrition Program on Sarcopenia in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Primary Care

Sunghwan Ji , Ji Yeon Baek, Jin Go, Chang Ki Lee, Sang Soo Yu, Hee-Won Jung, Eunju Lee, Il-Young Jang

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia, marked by the progressive decline of skeletal muscle mass and strength, is a significant health issue in aging populations. Primary care-based interventions may offer effective management strategies, yet randomized controlled trials evaluating these interventions are limited. Methods: We conducted an unblinded, parallel-group randomized controlled trial at a public health center in Korea responsible for primary care, enrolling participants aged 65 and older with sarcopenia. Participants were randomized to either an intervention group (receiving a 12-week program of group exercises and nutritional support) or a control group (receiving lifestyle management education). The primary outcome was the change in gait speed over the intervention period. Secondary outcomes included changes in physical performance, grip strength, muscle mass, quality of life, and frailty index. Results: A total of 86 participants were enrolled and randomized (intervention group: n = 43; control group: n = 43). The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in gait speed (0.14 m/s [95% CI: 0.10–0.18] vs. –0.04 m/s [95% CI: –0.08 to 0.00], P < 0.001), Short Physical Performance Battery scores, grip strength, quality of life, and frailty index, compared to the control group. Conclusion: The 12-week exercise and nutrition intervention yielded significant gains in physical performance, grip strength, quality of life, and frailty reduction among community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia. These findings support the value of community-based, multicomponent interventions for managing sarcopenia.

PY24197  Accepted 01 July 2025

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