Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital

The meeting commenced with an opening speech by Dr. Hsiao Po-Jen, the head of the nephrology department. He explained that sarcopenia refers to the decline in skeletal muscle mass and function associated with aging or disease, which poses significant health risks for dialysis patients. Due to challenges such as inadequate protein intake, heightened inflammatory responses, and metabolic abnormalities, dialysis patients are particularly vulnerable to developing sarcopenia. This condition not only diminishes the quality of life for kidney patients but is also closely linked to an increased risk of infections, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. Consequently, the early prevention and management of sarcopenia is a critical focus in the health management of dialysis patients. Dr. Hsiao expressed his gratitude to the kidney community for their participation and reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to their health.

The Kidney Friends Meeting featured a specially designed thematic presentation along with interactive segments. Through a series of professional and practical activities, the prevention and management of sarcopenia were integrated into the daily lives of kidney friends. Dr. Chiang Wen-Fang, the head of the nephrology department, discussed how to transform the “muscle crisis” into “muscle growth,” explaining the dangers of sarcopenia and strategies for coping with it while emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Dr. Wu Kun-Lin, the head of the hemodialysis unit, then spoke about the significance of exercise, highlighting the crucial role of appropriate physical activity in maintaining muscle mass and sharing simple, practical daily exercise methods. Finally, Nurse Manager Fan Hsin-Chung led the nursing team in a segment titled “Muscle is Essential APT,” which combined popular music with engaging examples and videos to teach kidney friends simple exercises aimed at helping them maintain muscle mass and function.

The nursing team conducted an engaging interactive segment titled “Muscle Effort,” which incorporated games and quizzes to help patients apply the knowledge they had gained to their daily lives. The event featured a discussion at 3:50 PM, during which kidney friends exchanged opinions with the medical team in a friendly atmosphere. It concluded with a group photo at 4:00 PM to capture the wonderful memories created. This Kidney Friends Meeting not only provided practical medical information but also enhanced the confidence of kidney friends in combating sarcopenia while deepening the connection between the medical team and the kidney friends. The nephrology department and dialysis unit team at the Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital will continue to address the health needs of kidney friends, ensuring their quality of life.