Comprehensive geriatric assessment markers in older adults with and without sarcopenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to assess measures of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) in older adults with and without sarcopenia. METHODS: We searched from inception until February 2024 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Random effects model meta-analyses were employed for activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL (IADL), geriatric depression scale (GDS), mini nutritional assessment (MNA), mini-mental state examination (MMSE), and odds of living alone between older adults with vs. without sarcopenia (CRD42024498106). RESULTS: Our main analysis showed non-significant differences related to ADL in older adults with sarcopenia vs. without sarcopenia [k = 17; Standardised mean difference (SMD): -0.91, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: -2.06 - 0.24, I² = 100 %, P = 0.12], however, significant lower levels were observed in those with sarcopenia regarding IADL (k = 11; SMD: -1.12, 95 %CI: -2.15 - -0.09, I² = 99 %, P = 0.03). Individuals with sarcopenia displayed a significantly higher score of GDS (k = 18; MD: 0.97, 95 %CI: 0.65 - 1.30, I² = 75 %, P < 0.01) and higher odds of living alone (k = 23; OR: 1.44, 95 %CI: 1.28 - 1.61, I² = 0 %, P < 0.01). Additionally, adults with sarcopenia showed significantly lower MMSE (k = 24; MD: -1.73, 95 %CI: -2.18 - -1.29, I² = 83 %, P < 0.01) and MNA scores (k = 29MD: -1.42, 95 %CI: -1.78 - -1.05, I² = 93 %, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the association of sarcopenia with lower IADL, MMSE performance and MNA scores, highlighting its multidimensional impact and need for early detection and management in older adults.