Citation

Schöne D, Freiberger E, Sieber CC. Internist 2017; 58(4): 359-370.

Vernacular Title

Einfluss der Skelettmuskulatur auf das Sturzrisiko im Alter.

Affiliation

Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Geriatrie, Krankenhaus Barmherzige Brüder Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s00108-017-0212-5

PMID

28265682

Abstract

Falls in older adults are a major public health problem, affecting 1 in 3 persons aged 65 and over at least once a year. Consequences of falling include death, injuries, fear of falling, and subsequent loss of independence. The age-related loss of muscle mass and function (sarcopenia) as well as muscle strength are markers of the frailty syndrome. In addition, they are associated with physical function and are a risk factor for falling. Older adults should be screened for falls at least annually. If evaluated as at-risk, a comprehensive falls assessment should be conducted to determine an individual's risk profile. Physical exercise with balance and strength training play a key role in the prevention and management of functional decline and fall risk. Multifactorial interventions are indicated in at-risk individuals. In sarcopenic individuals, sufficient intake of protein must be taken into account and supplementation in combination with exercise appears to be useful.

Language: de

Keywords

Accidental falls; Aged; Muscle strength; Muscles, function; Sarcopenia