Loss of muscle mass and strength in older adults is called which term?

Loss of muscle mass and strength in older adults is called which term?

• A. Sarcopenia
• B. Osteoporosis
• C. Myopathy
• D. Dystrophy

Answer: (A)

Sarcopenia is the term for age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. As people age, muscle fibers shrink and the number of motor units can decrease, and hormonal changes, inflammation, and reduced activity all contribute. This combination leads to weaker muscles, slower gait, and greater risk of falls and disability. Osteoporosis involves loss of bone density and strength, increasing fracture risk—not muscle loss. Myopathy refers to diseases of muscle tissue that cause weakness from various causes, not specifically tied to aging. Dystrophy describes inherited conditions with progressive muscle degeneration, not the typical aging process.

Sarcopenia is the term for age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. As people age, muscle fibers shrink and the number of motor units can decrease, and hormonal changes, inflammation, and reduced activity all contribute. This combination leads to weaker muscles, slower gait, and greater risk of falls and disability.

Osteoporosis involves loss of bone density and strength, increasing fracture risk—not muscle loss. Myopathy refers to diseases of muscle tissue that cause weakness from various causes, not specifically tied to aging. Dystrophy describes inherited conditions with progressive muscle degeneration, not the typical aging process.