Abstract:

BACKGROUND: There is a dearth of longitudinal data on body composition, function, and physical performance in persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD).
OBJECTIVES: The aim was to describe the trajectories of function, body composition, and physical performance in older adults with AD.
METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, data were collected from older adults (n=1402) diagnosed with AD (mean age: 78.1窶謁 old, women: 69.3%). Cognitive function was assessed using the mini-mental state examination. Proxy-reported instrumental and basic activities of daily living were assessed using the Lawton and Barthel indexes. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Physical performance was assessed using the timed up and go test and grip strength.
RESULTS: Median (interquartile range) of follow-up time was 2.2 (1.2 to 3.6) years. Participants' mini-mental state examination score, Barthel index, and Lawton index declined over time. Skeletal muscle mass index and physical performance (timed up and go test and grip strength) decreased, while fat mass index increased with time. No significant changes or slight decline in weight and body mass index was observed.
CONCLUSIONS: Muscle mass and physical performance are likely to decline in older adults with AD. Clinicians should assess muscle mass and physical performance trajectories regularly in these patients and intervene appropriately.

日本語要旨:

アルツハイマー型認知症を有する高齢者における日常生活動作能力や認知機能、身体機能や体組成の変化を経時的に記述した。アルツハイマー型認知症を有する高齢者において日常生活動作能力や認知機能が低下するだけでなく、身体機能や筋量も減少していくことを示した。