Comorbidity, Cognition, Gait Speed, and Respiratory Muscle Strength in Older Adults

This cross-sectional observational study aims to examine the associations of comorbidity burden and cognitive function with gait speed and respiratory muscle strength in community-dwelling adults aged 60 years and older. The relationships of physical activity level and functional mobility with these outcomes will also be investigated.

Participants will complete interview-based questionnaires, cognitive assessments, and non-invasive measurements of gait speed, functional mobility, handgrip strength, and respiratory muscle strength during a single study visit. The Strength, Assistance with walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, and Falls (SARC-F) questionnaire will also be administered to provide descriptive information about possible sarcopenia risk; however, no diagnosis or classification of sarcopenia will be performed. No treatment or experimental intervention will be administered.