Older patients have significant decline in function after hospitalisation
Even prior to admission to hospital, 5-13% of older persons of 65 years and older have low muscle mass; increasing to 50% in persons that are over 80 years old. Declining muscle mass in the lower extremities with ageing is most significant to mobility status, and the cross-sectional area of the vastus lateralis (quadriceps) muscle decreases by up to 40% between the ages of 20 and 80 years.
Older patients are most likely to come to hospital and become deconditioned; increased immobility for prolonged periods significantly reduces muscle mass and function, with 30-60% experiencing functional decline after hospitalisation, resulting in a decline in health-related quality of life and autonomy. Frailer older people (those who require a walker), those who report unsteadiness at hospital admission, and those with cognitive impairment are significantly more likely to suffer functional decline whilst in hospital. This hospitalisation-associated decline in function is associated with increased risk of readmission, nursing home placement and mortality.
Evidence demonstrates that age is not a barrier to improve aerobic fitness and strength gains through appropriate training, and the changes seen are similar to what younger people can achieve.
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