Sarcopenia and frailty, known as the modern “Giants of Geriatrics”, are two age-related syndromes that have garnered significant attention in the field. Sarcopenia is characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and loss of muscle function. While frailty is a clinical condition characterized by an excessive vulnerability of the individual to endogenous and exogenous stressors. Both syndromes are considered strong predictors of morbidity, disability, and mortality in older adults, and their prevalence varies across different regions and diagnostic tools. There is growing recognition of various risk factors associated with sarcopenia and frailty in older adults, including malnutrition, chronic disease, depression, sleep disorders, teeth loss and cognitive decline. And there is the reversibility of returning to a healthy state with appropriate interventions. Early intervention through exercise and nutrition can help mitigate the risks associated with sarcopenia and frailty, and both syndromes can be effectively managed, benefiting both older adults and their families, while also reducing dependence on healthcare and social services.
To support early intervention and reduce disability and hospitalization rates among older adults, this research topic welcomes original research articles, reviews, and opinion pieces that explore the current prevalence, the influencing risk factors, and prediction models of age-related sarcopenia and frailty. Early identification and early intervention were important to reverse these geriatrics syndromes. In identifying approaches to accurately measure, assess, and improve sarcopenia and frailty, the research topic strives to further substantiate the significance of sarcopenia and frailty in the field of geriatrics medicine and public health.
The submissions featured in this research topic need to be relevant to public health and aging. It is essential that each submission describe the problem in public health terms and provide implications for public health. Please note that articles solely focused on physiological or clinical aspects will not be considered for this research topic. The scope of the Research Topic includes, but is not limited to, the following topics:
• Current epidemiology of sarcopenia and frailty in different regions and populations worldwide.
• Factors influencing sarcopenia and frailty.
• Key health outcomes associated with sarcopenia and frailty, such as morbidity, disability, and mortality.
• Interventions to improve sarcopenia and frailty.
• The risks of being in sarcopenia and frailty.
• The association between sarcopenia/frailty and chronic disease.
• Public health implications of improving sarcopenia and frailty in populations.
• Development of new tools for measuring sarcopenia and frailty.
• Prediction models of identifying and managing sarcopenia and frailty.
Note: Please note that this section adheres to The Gerontological Society of America Reframing Aging Journal Manuscript Guidelines advice against ageist language. For example, the guidelines emphasize supporting a more inclusive image of aging. Terms such as “older adult,” “older persons,” or “older people” are the preferred terms for describing individuals aged 65 years and older as opposed to “seniors,” “the elderly,” and “the aged.” Use of this recommended language will be a criteria for acceptance and you can view an example of these guidelines
here. Additionally, please refer to APA guidelines (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE GUIDELINES) for more guidance about inclusionary language.
