Screening Potential of Finger Tapping and Visual Reaction Time Tests for Sarcopenia in Geriatric Clinical Practice

Background: Sarcopenia is a progressive skeletal muscle disorder characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength, associated with falls, fractures, and mortality. The Finger Tapping Test (FTT) has been widely used in neurophysiological studies to evaluate motor control and function. Visual reaction time tests are computer-based tools that measure the response speed to visual stimuli and have been linked to cognitive function. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of computer-based Finger Tapping Test and visual reaction time tests in diagnosing and staging sarcopenia. Methods: Demographic characteristics, handgrip strength, muscle mass, physical performance, and Sarcopenia Questionnaire (SARC-F) scores were recorded. Participants underwent computer-based Finger Tapping Test and visual reaction time tests. Data distribution was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. As data were non-normally distributed, the Kruskal–Wallis test was applied, revealing significant intergroup differences (p < 0.005). Pairwise comparisons were conducted with the Dunn–Bonferroni test. Results: Finger Tapping Test results showed a significant decline in motor performance with increasing sarcopenia severity. Visual reaction time outcomes revealed significant differences between healthy individuals and all sarcopenia groups (p < 0.001), although response patterns varied across groups. Conclusions: The prolongation of Finger Tapping Test times in severe sarcopenia indicates impaired motor performance. The Finger Tapping Test may raise early awareness as a screening tool; however, due to its sensitivity to multiple influencing factors, it should not be considered a stand-alone diagnostic method.