<![CDATA[Introduction. The number of older adults in Indonesia continues to increase, and so does the number of older adults with sarcopenia. The decline in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance can reduce quality of life. Body Mass Index (BMI) is easy to measure at community health posts, but it is unclear whether BMI reflects muscle strength and physical performance in older adults who already have sarcopenia. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between BMI and muscle strength and physical performance in older adults with sarcopenia. Methods. This analytical observational cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2024 at elderly community health posts (posyandu lansia) in Palembang. The sample consisted of 42 adults aged ≥60 years with sarcopenia according to the AWGS 2019 criteria, namely low muscle mass (BIA-derived ASMI Results. Of the 42 subjects, most were aged 60–70 years (54.8%), with a mean age of 70.8 years, and women (88.1%). The mean BMI was 18.9 kg/m², and 66.7% of subjects had a normal BMI. BMI showed a moderate positive correlation with muscle mass (ρ = 0.451; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.67; p = 0.003). However, there were no significant correlation between BMI and muscle strength (ρ = 0.221; 95% CI −0.09 to 0.50; p = 0.159) as well as 6-meter walk time (ρ = −0.192; 95% CI −0.47 to 0.12; p = 0.222). The mean 6-meter walk time was 9.59 seconds (equivalent to a gait speed of approximately 0.63 m/s). Conclusions. In older adults with sarcopenia attending community health posts in Palembang, BMI was correlated with muscle mass but was not significantly correlated with muscle strength or physical performance. A normal BMI does not necessarily reflect good muscle strength and physical performance; therefore, handgrip strength and gait speed should still be measured directly.]]>
