Towards a definition of sarcopenia--results from epidemiologic studies

The age-related loss of muscle mass, also called sarcopenia, is receiving increasing attention in aging research. While the concept is frequently being used in research settings and introduced to clinical settings, thus far no consensus on its definition has been established. This article provides an overview of the history of sarcopenia definitions proposed in the literature thus far. It will describe the methodology used to develop the cutpoints for low muscle mass (or strength) in large epidemiological studies, how sarcopenia based on these cutpoints relates to functional outcomes, and the advantages and disadvantages of the different definitions. This overview will contribute to the current need to develop a consensus definition of sarcopenia which can be used in all relevant settings. The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging©

Game-Based IT Solutions for Active and Healthy Aging

Game-based approaches can be used to support traditional intervention schemes which enable older adults in staying active & healthy for a longer time. These techniques are especially useful as they improve the motivation of the users and thus help to improve the effectiveness of the intervention. TV-based games are often oriented along traditional video games. External sensors like video cameras can be incorporated to provide direct feedback on the activities of the user. This information can also be utilized to reassess the status of the user and monitor his/her training progress. Mobile devices and the large range of available body worn sensors offer the opportunity to design games around daily and outdoor activities. By adding a social level to the games, competition and group efforts can be initiated, giving further motivation to reach a certain goal. In this overview, we will present different approaches of game-based IT solutions to support active & healthy aging, including concrete examples from resent applications. © 2014 Springer International Publishing

Increasing Physical and Social Activity through Virtual Coaching in an Ambient Environment

This paper describes the development and the validation of an ambient system (AAL-VU) that empowers its users in self-management of daily activities and social connectedness. The system combines state-of-the-art psychological knowledge on elderly user requirements for sustained behavior change with modern ICT technology in suggesting an adaptive ambient solution for the prevention and management of chronic diseases, inactivity and loneliness , thus resulting in a higher quality of life. Specifically, the AAL-VU system stimulates beneficial levels of activity in elderly as well as social connected-ness. The focus on physical and social activity was chosen as this is recognized as a crucial element for the prevention, cure, and management of many chronic illnesses. Increasing Physical and Social Activity through Virtual Coaching in an Ambient Environment. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281289812_Increasing_Physical_and_Social_Activity_through_Virtual_Coaching_in_an_Ambient_Environment [accessed Apr 25, 2017]

Towards a design tool for visualizing the functional demand placed on older adults by everyday living tasks

This paper discusses the development of a design tool using data calculated from the biomechanical functional demand on joints in older adults during activities of daily living, portrayed using a visual 'traffic-light' system. Whole body movements of 84 older adults were analysed using a 3D motion capture system and reaction forces were measured by force platforms, and translated into a 3D software model. Although originally intended as a tool for designers, the early evaluation of this method of visualizing the data suggests that it may be of value across those involved in the professional care of older adults