Sarcopenia increases the risk of dementia by 60%.

A study has found that people with sarcopenia, a condition characterized by a decrease in skeletal muscle mass, have a higher risk of developing dementia than those without it.

Skeletal muscle accounts for about one-third of body weight and is muscle tissue connected to bones or tendons that enables movement. As one ages, skeletal muscle mass decreases and function is lost, which can lead to sarcopenia.

 

A research team from the Department of Radiology and Neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine tracked 621 elderly individuals without dementia for an average of 5.8 years. The team analyzed the correlation between muscle mass loss and the risk of developing dementia by measuring the size of the temporalis muscle using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The temporalis muscle is used to move the lower jaw, and the team utilized its thickness and area as indicators of overall muscle loss. Dr. Kamiya Moradi, who led the study, stated, "The thickness and area of ​​the temporalis muscle are one of the indicators showing early signs of muscle loss due to aging or malnutrition, and muscle mass can be assessed using non-invasive methods such as MRI or ultrasound."

The research team classified the participants into a large group (131 people) and a small group (488 people) based on the cross-sectional area of ​​their temporalis muscles. They measured the participants' risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, cognitive function, and changes in brain volume.

Analysis results showed that people with smaller temporalis muscle cross-sectional areas had a 60% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease than those with larger areas. During the follow-up period, it was found that the smaller the temporalis muscle cross-sectional area, the greater the decrease in the overall memory score, cognitive function questionnaire score, and brain volume.

 

Dr. Moradi stated, “It is expected that measuring the size of the temporalis muscle as an indicator of skeletal muscle status will enable early diagnosis of dementia risk in the elderly,” adding, “Early detection of high-risk groups for dementia allows for timely intervention to prevent muscle loss through physical activity or nutritional management.”

 

To prevent age-related sarcopenia, it is necessary to consume high-quality protein and engage in regular exercise. Seniors are advised to consume at least 1 gram of high-quality protein per kilogram of body weight daily, sourced from eggs, tofu, and meat. For aerobic exercise, moderate-intensity workouts of 30 to 60 minutes five days a week, or high-intensity workouts of 20 to 30 minutes three times a week, are recommended. Strength training should not be performed consecutively and should be done at least twice a week.

 

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sarcopenia

They say you lose a lot of muscle as you get older.

Always tell me to manage it beforehand.

My mom always nags me,

It looks like squat exercises are good.