Sarcopenia: age-related loss of muscle mass and function

Muscle may become weaker even before a visible change in body shape. Common clues include needing the arms to rise from a chair, slower walking, difficulty carrying groceries, reduced stamina on stairs, or a less steady balance. Muscle cramps can have many causes and do not confirm sarcopenia. A clinician considers strength, walking performance, muscle size and other health problems together.

Arrange an assessment if strength or function is changing. A physiotherapist can set a gradual strengthening plan using safe resistance, balance practice and functional tasks. Regular movement between sessions helps the muscles respond, while adequate food and protein should be discussed with a clinician or dietitian, especially when appetite, kidney disease or swallowing is an issue. Home changes and a falls prevention programme may reduce hazards while strength improves.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly worsening weakness, a new inability to stand or walk, repeated falls, severe pain, fainting, confusion, or weakness that affects one side. Sudden symptoms need urgent assessment because they may have a cause other than sarcopenia. New difficulty walking deserves review even when it develops gradually.

Ask which findings suggest sarcopenia, whether medicines or another illness could be contributing, and how progress will be measured. You can also ask which exercises are suitable for your joints and balance, how to use a walking aid safely, and whether a nutrition review is appropriate.