Background: Limited data are available on body composition (BC) and physical function in healthy adults >80 y, potentially hampering development of reference values. We aimed to study 1) BC and physical function and 2) changes in hand-grip strength over a 4-year period in a community dwelling elderly Swedish population.

Methods: Apparently healthy, community-dwelling men (n=51) and women (n=51) aged >83y were measured by Sit to Stand-test, hand grip strength, body height, body weight and BC using a Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (Impedimed). The study was approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board in Gothenburg as an addition to Elderly Persons in the Risk Zone (T176-12).

Results: Mean age 86.5 y, no age difference between sexes. Men and women performed equally well at the Sit to Stand-test. Men were significantly stronger with a mean HGS of 34.1 kg compared to women of 19.5 kg. 15 % had a BMI below 22 kg/m2. According to skeletal muscle index (SMI) 64 % were assessed as having severe sarcopenia (Cruz-Jentoft et al 2010).

Conclusion: In this healthy elderly population BC and physical function was well preserved compared to previous studies, although many were classified as sarcopenic according to current cut-offs. Results from this study can be used as reference values for healthy community-dwelling elderly in high age.