What impact does aging have on muscle mass and strength?

As individuals age, there is a well-documented decline in both muscle mass and strength, a process often referred to as sarcopenia. This physiological change occurs due to a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, decreased physical activity, changes in metabolism, and alterations in the neuromuscular system.

With age, muscle fibers can undergo atrophy, leading to a reduction in the number and size of muscle fibers, particularly the fast-twitch fibers that are crucial for strength and power. Additionally, the ability to regenerate muscle tissue diminishes, which further contributes to the loss of muscle mass.

Strength decreases not only because of the loss of muscle mass but also due to the decline in the neuromuscular function—namely, the ability of the brain to activate muscle fibers efficiently. This results in a decrease in overall muscular strength and power output, making daily activities more challenging for older adults. Understanding this process highlights the importance of resistance training and physical activity in mitigating these effects and promoting healthy aging.