Sarcopenia is an age-related skeletal muscle disorder characterized by reduced muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. It may lead to impaired balance, reduced mobility, falls, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. Exercise is a central component of sarcopenia management; however, the additional effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation exercises in older adults with sarcopenia remain unclear.

This study compared proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation-based exercise with conventional exercise in adults aged 65 years or older with sarcopenia. A total of 34 participants were assigned to either a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group or a conventional exercise group.

Both groups participated in supervised exercise sessions three times per week for 10 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes. The conventional exercise program included lower-extremity strengthening, balance, functional mobility, sit-to-stand, gait, and stretching exercises. The proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group received the conventional exercise program together with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques.

Participants were evaluated at baseline, during the first month, and during the third month after initiation of the exercise program. Outcomes included balance, functional mobility, walking capacity, lower-extremity functional performance, stair performance, fear of falling, and depressive symptoms. Assessments included the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test, stair ascent and descent test, Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale, and Geriatric Depression Scale.