Muscle Loss in Older Adults

The term sarcopenia refers to age-related muscle loss and is a natural part of growing older. However it also may occur at a faster pace after prolonged periods of inactivity from injury, illness or the pain of osteoarthritis. Sarcopenia causes muscle atrophy and brings on problems such as poor balance and greater weakness, which in turn, can result in more inactivity and increased risks for falls.   

Seniors with muscle atrophy may have difficulty reaching their arms upward, opening jars, typing on a keyboard or even tying shoes. The Harvard Medical School reports findings of a 2015 study on muscle loss in older men taking part in eight weeks of strength training. After stopping for two weeks, the men lost approximately 25 percent of their muscle gains.    

Jodi Klein, a physical therapist with Harvard's Brigham and Women's Hospital, suggests a few things you can do if you know you have a surgical procedure ahead of you that could cause muscle atrophy. She says if you are currently active, keep it up; if not, use this time to get started.  Klein explains, "The better shape you are in going into surgery, the better shape you will be coming out, and the less chance you have of enduring muscle loss." 

Older adults who want to regain muscle strength should talk to their health care provider about the best methods. Experts recommend an exercise routine that builds both upper and lower body strength. This could include weight training with dumbbells and resistance bands in conjunction with walking, swimming, and biking. If it would be helpful, think about turning to an expert to aid you in regaining strength.

At MorningStar at Observatory Park, we provide a level of assisted living to enable seniors to live independent lives. Our desirable location in the South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area offers a choice of 60 suites from studios to one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our distinctive Reflections Neighborhood provides 23 suites. Opening in spring of 2023, we invite you to visit our website to secure your select suite. Also be sure to ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/dont-let-muscle-mass-go-to-waste?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GB20221130-BodyWeight&utm_id=4484696&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=4484696