Integrated Measurement and Management System for Sarcopenia Diagnosis

Sarcopenia, defined as the progressive loss of mass and muscular function, is an important public health problem with significant economic and social consequences. The implementation of effective preventive and therapeutic interventions is a major challenge due to the increasing number of elderly people suffering from this syndrome and its debilitating complications. The diagnosis of sarcopenia requires the measurement of muscle mass and strength, and physical performance. Each evaluation method has significant limitations in terms of sensitivity and/or specificity. The goal of this work is to develop an integrated technological system, consisting of measuring devices, including mobile and wearable devices, interfacing with a data collection and processing software system, for clinical monitoring and management of the analyzed case studies. The system has been designed to both preventive (early diagnosis) and monitoring purposes of the patient’s condition over time. The diagnosis will support medical personnel in identifying appropriate interventions to prevent or reduce sarcopenia, which can be communicated via apps on smartphones to patients and caregivers, and monitored by medical personnel.