| s an individual increases in age, a decrease in muscle mass and strength occurs (Rogers & Evans, 1993). This normal age-related decrease in muscle mass with advancing age is termed sarcopenia (Roubenoff, 2000), and occurs in both men and women (Hughes et al., 2001). The decrease in muscle mass associated with aging occurs more rapidly in the physically inactive than their active counterparts. In physically inactive people, there is a loss of approximately 3-5% of muscle mass each decade after the age of 30, and a parallel decline in muscle strength [reviewed by (Nair, 1995)]. There is a greater loss in fast twitch muscle fibers than in slow-twitch muscle fibers. Additionally, a decrease in muscle cell size, particularly in type II muscle fibers (or fast twitch fibers), is seen in the elderly (Rogers & Evans, 1993). In addition to this decrease in muscle mass and strength, lean body mass slowly decreases throughout adulthood. Lean body mass is highest in the third decade, after which it falls slowly for the next two decades, and then more rapidly. Body fat content also progressively rises (Forbes & Reina, 1970). Sarcopenia decreases the ability of the elderly population to perform activities of daily living. This decrease in muscle mass and strength are linked to an increased risk of falls and fractures in this population (Deschenes, 2004). This causes decreased independence and quality of life in the elderly. Sarcopenia and decreased muscle strength are also associated with increased health care costs. Decreased strength and power has been linked to several chronic afflictions that are common among the 2 aged. These include osteoporosis, insulin resistance, and arthritis (Deschenes, 2004). The increase in such diseases in the elderly population has contributed to a rise in health care costs. Per capita health care spending has increased dramatically between 1966 and 2001 (Altman, Tompkins, Eilat, & Gavin, 2003). It has been estimated that by the year 2010, approximately... |
PDF Full Text Request