A Prospective Controlled Study on the Longitudinal Effects of Rehabilitation in Older Women with Primary Sarcopenia

Sarcopenia, defined as a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, is a leading contributor to disability, dependence, and reduced quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a personalized six-month rehabilitation program, centered on tailored kinetic therapy, on physical performance and HRQoL in older women with primary sarcopenia. Methods: This prospective controlled study included 80 women aged >= 65 years, allocated into a Study Group (SG, n = 40), who followed a supervised personalized kinetic program, and a control group (CG, n = 40), who received general advice regarding physical activity and nutrition. Physical performance was measured using the short physical performance battery (SPPB), while HRQoL was assessed with the disease-specific SarQoL questionnaire. Evaluations were conducted at baseline and after six months. Results: At baseline, both groups had comparable scores (SPPB: SG = 5.75 +/- 0.86 vs. CG = 5.8 +/- 0.88, p = 0.798; SarQoL: SG = 54.42 +/- 8.76 vs. CG = 55.59 +/- 4.61, p = 0.457). After six months, the SG showed significant improvements (SPPB = 8.05 +/- 0.90, p < 0.001; SarQoL = 62.55 +/- 7.00, p < 0.001). Significant gains were observed in domains related to physical and mental health, locomotion, functionality, and leisure activities (p < 0.05). In contrast, the CG showed only minor, non-significant changes (SPPB = 6.17 +/- 0.78; SarQoL = 56.51 +/- 5.51). Conclusions: A structured, personalized kinetic program significantly improves physical performance and HRQoL in older women with primary sarcopenia. These results support the need for individualized, supervised rehabilitation programs in optimizing functional recovery and enhancing patient-centered outcomes in sarcopenia management.