Influence of Possible Sarcopenia on Functional Fitness and Fall Risk in Community-dwelling Older Adults in Taiwan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Taiwan is projected to enter a superaged society by 2025. As population aging has accelerated, sarcopenia has emerged as a major public health concern. However, empirical evidence regarding the effects of possible sarcopenia on functional fitness and fall risk among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan remains limited. This study examined the influence of possible sarcopenia on functional fitness and fall risk in this population. Methods A cross-sectional design was employed. Using convenience sampling, 304 community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 65 years were recruited. Possible sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria and was based on a handgrip strength < 28 kg for men and < 18 kg for women. Functional fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test, and fall risk was evaluated using the Fall Risk Questionnaire. Chi-square tests, independent t tests, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results The prevalence of possible sarcopenia was 34.87%. Compared with participants without possible sarcopenia, those with possible sarcopenia demonstrated significantly poorer gait speed, handgrip strength, balance, and cardiorespiratory endurance ( P  < 0.05). After adjustment for age and body mass index, the odds of fall risk were 9.333 times higher in men and 4.411 times higher in women with possible sarcopenia ( P  < 0.001). Conclusion Possible sarcopenia is a critical screening indicator for functional decline and elevated fall risk among community-dwelling older adults. Simple muscle strength assessments may serve as effective screening tools for the early identification of high-risk individuals and support targeted preventive strategies in superaged societies.