Strength and endurance of skeletal muscle in the elderly

Abstract

This review describes the reductions and limitations in skeletal muscle function associated with the normal aging process. Specific attention has been given to changes in muscle strength and muscle endurance, as well as to the effects of strength-training programs on the elderly. It is concluded from the literature that, although healthy old people achieve high levels of muscle activation in tests of voluntary strength, a loss of motoneurons and skeletal muscle fibres with aging appears to cause a gradual decline of muscle strength after the sixth decade. In association with that lowered strength, there is some reduction of muscle endurance for heavy lifting and carrying tasks. Whether the inherent fatiguability of muscle is altered in the elderly is currently a controversial issue. The recent introduction of innovative physical programs for the disabled or sedentary elderly, in the form of specific strengthening exercises, dance, and physical hobbies appears to be promising as a means for improving muscle function. So far, most research on aging has been limited to healthy men and women from 60 to 80 years of age; there is a continuing need for more information on the very old, including those in health institutions.