Cross-sectional associations of handgrip strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass index with frailty status in prefrail and frail older adults.

In this cross-sectional comparison, muscle function showed a stronger independent association with frailty status than muscle mass alone.

Frailty was associated with lower protein and mineral content, findings that require confirmation with more precise measurement methods.

Handgrip strength is an efficient, low-cost indicator that was strongly associated with frailty and should be prioritized for community screening.