This week, the Hamilton Spectator published an article about new research that debunks a popular belief about aging and muscle loss. It has been widely accepted that sarcopenia – the loss of muscle as we age – is an inevitable, unavoidable part of getting older. However, a new study suggests that with consistent exercise and weight training programs, muscle tone and function can be retained. In the article, researchers outline that older adults do have to work harder than young people for muscle maintenance, but the good news they say, is that muscle loss is more influenced by inactivity than aging itself.
At the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal, we review multiple studies and the best available research evidence before we come to any conclusions about healthy aging recommendations. However, one thing remains true, exercise is absolutely beneficial to your overall health. From prevention to treatment, staying active is key.
Below, we’ve compiled our evidence-based resources around the topics of physical health and aging including frailty, functional decline and exercise.
