Aging and Exercise

Sarcopenia.

It's a big word for an insidious condition: the loss of muscle, strength and quality of tissue often seen in older adults.

Studies indicate muscle mass declines 4% every decade from age 25 to 50. Along with that, our flexibility and balance diminish. But we can slow all this and in the process live healthier lives. Just by improving balance we can reduce the risk of a hip fracture. Flexibility exercises can ease the discomfort of creaky joints. And muscle mass can be built at any age.

The National Institute on Aging says "when older people lose their ability to do things on their own, it doesn’t happen just because they have aged. More likely it is because they have become inactive." So talk with your doctor about an exercise program.

For more information check out:http://www.niapublications.org/agepages/exercise.asp