Tackling Australia's future health problems: Developing strategies to combat sarcopenia - Age-related muscle wasting and weakness

Abstract

Some of the most serious consequences of ageing are its effects on skeletal muscle structure and function. Ageing is associated with a progressive loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), a slowing of movement, and a decline in strength; factors that increase the risk of injury from sudden falls and a reliance on the frail elderly for assistance in accomplishing even the most basic tasks required for independent living. From a public health perspective, sarcopenia has widespread clinical implications. As the proportion of older persons in the population continues to grow, sarcopenia will have a dramatic impact on the lives of Australians and place increasing demands on health care. Although it is g..