GRIP STRENGTH, MENTAL PERFORMANCE AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS AS INDICATORS OF MORTALITY RISK AMONG FEMALE GERIATRIC PATIENTS

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Abstract
The study involved 82 consecutive acute admissions of female patients to a geriatric ward. A wide range of medical diagnoses was represented. The patients were assessed in relation to anthropometric measurements (grip strength, mid-arm circumference, triceps skin-fold, and arm muscle circumference), mental test score and serum albumin. The prognostic significance of these variables was considered with regard to mortality. Those who died had significantly lower grip strength (PPPPP<0.01). It appears that reduced grip strength, malnutrition and mental impairment are associated with increased risk of mortality in acute illness. Likely mechanisms are discussed.

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