Any of you dealing with sarcopenia?

RetiredTeacher

My DH appears to be declining physically more quickly than cognitively. He has VD but both his mother and older brother died from alz, so he may have mixed dementia but not diagnosed. He sits most of the day and has for years. His legs and hips are weak and getting weaker, he has difficulty: rising from sitting, standing unsupported for any length of time and walking with his walker any distance. He often sits in the car for quick errands to the store if it does not have a scooter cart. To get exercise we go out daily on ebikes/etrike for him and he does pedal the trike. We go for 6-7 miles and he is able to do that because it is not weight bearing. On bad weather days we have a recumbent stationary bike he rides while I get on the treadmill. He is 77 and I realize he is getting older, weaker and has dementia. It is so hard to see his muscles wasting. I am encouraging additional protein drinks, etc but he craves sweets and fatty salty foods and doesn't eat enough protein. It's so hard to see his muscles wasting. Any advice or feedback from those who have been here.... I'm wondering how long it will be until he's in a wheelchair…

jgreen

Hi, @RetiredTeacher

For the sweet tooth - get some protein power and add it to milkshakes, pudding, and smoothies

For the salty - maybe scrambled eggs with diced ham or bacon, nachos with cooked ground beef/turkey, pinto beans or black beans and shredded cheese, or cottage cheese with “everything” spice mix.

My DH too craves the sweets, and he has several missing teeth so chewing is difficult for him. The soft foods work best in our situation. If chewing not a problem, some of the protein bars have sweet/nutty options that would work.

Just know that protein is hard on the kidneys, so make sure your DH stays hydrated.

My DH still fairly ambulatory, so I can’t offer any tips.

Best of luck to you.

Jeff H

For my DW Quest protein bars are working great for her. She gets the sweet tooth, high protein but very low in sugar. I hope this helps.

SDianeL

found this:

• Shared Pathologies: Both dementia and sarcopeniaare driven by similar mechanisms, including chronic inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and reduced physical activity, which can accelerate both muscular and cognitive decline.
• Predictor of Decline: Low muscle mass and strength, particularly poor grip strength, are early markers of potential cognitive impairment.
• Structural Brain Changes: Research indicates a connection between low muscle mass and decreased hippocampal volume, which is associated with memory decline.
• Impact on Function: Sarcopenia increases the risk of falls and fragility, which, when combined with dementia, significantly impacts a person’s independence. 

RetiredTeacher

Ty all for your input. I will check into the Quest bars