SARCOPENIA IN OLDER ADULTS: A THEORETICAL REVIEW ON DEFINITION, DIAGNOSIS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63026/acertte.v6i2.307

Keywords:

Sarcopenia. Aging. Quality of life. Geriatric syndrome.

Abstract

Population aging has intensified in recent decades, becoming one of the most significant contemporary demographic phenomena and bringing important challenges to healthcare systems. Among the conditions associated with aging, sarcopenia stands out as a multifactorial geriatric syndrome characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical performance, being directly associated with adverse outcomes such as falls, functional disability, frequent hospitalizations, and increased mortality. The present study aims to provide a comprehensive theoretical review of sarcopenia, addressing its conceptual evolution, pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, determining factors, clinical impacts, relationship with quality of life, and implications for public health. Based on the analysis of scientific literature, it is observed that sarcopenia remains underdiagnosed despite its high prevalence in the older population. The role of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) is highlighted, as it established muscle strength as the main clinical marker of the condition. It is concluded that sarcopenia represents a relevant public health issue, requiring greater integration between early diagnosis, preventive strategies, and multidimensional therapeutic approaches.

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Author Biographies

Angela Mitzi Hayashi Xavier, Universidade Brasil

Holds a degree in Physical Therapy from UNESP, a Master’s degree in Health Sciences from UNISA, and is a specialist in Strategic Management in Higher Education and Acupuncture. Has experience in teaching, research, and academic extension activities. Currently works as a professor and coordinator at Universidade Brasil and UniSant’Anna, and also coordinates a postgraduate program in Neuroscience (Estácio/Phorte).

Adriana Garcia Orfale, Universidade Brasil

Holds degrees in Physical Therapy and Physical Education, with specializations in Rheumatology, Aquatic Therapy, and Acupuncture. Earned a Master’s degree in Health Sciences (Rehabilitation) from UNIFESP. Has served as a coordinator and lecturer at several institutions, including Faculdades Guarulhos, Santa Marcelina, and UNISA. Currently works as Corporate Coordinator at Universidade Brasil.

Thuam Silva Rodrigues, Faculdade Sírio-Libanês

Faculty member at Sírio-Libanês Faculty and a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (USP). Holds a Master’s degree in Gerontology, is a specialist in the field, and has a degree in Chinese Medicine. Works in teaching, research, and academic extension, focusing on public health, epidemiology of aging, healthcare for older adults, and integrative practices. Currently pursuing a postgraduate program in Higher Education Teaching for Health Sciences.

Renata Alqualo Costa, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo

Holds a degree in Physical Therapy, a Master’s degree in Rheumatology, and a PhD in Physical Therapy. Currently serves as a faculty member at the University Cidade de São Paulo (UNICID), teaching in both undergraduate and graduate Physical Therapy programs, and coordinating the Lato Sensu postgraduate program in Acupuncture and Chinese Therapeutic Methods. Has experience in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, with emphasis on Rheumatology, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Occupational Health and Ergonomics, as well as Acupuncture. Her work focuses primarily on rheumatology, quality of life, prevention, rehabilitation, health education, and pain management.

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Published

2026-04-19

How to Cite

Xavier, A. M. H., Orfale, A. G., Rodrigues, T. S., & Costa, R. A. (2026). SARCOPENIA IN OLDER ADULTS: A THEORETICAL REVIEW ON DEFINITION, DIAGNOSIS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS. ACERTTE SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL, 6(2), e62307. https://doi.org/10.63026/acertte.v6i2.307

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