What is the term for the loss of muscle mass associated with aging?

The term for the loss of muscle mass associated with aging is sarcopenia. This condition typically involves a gradual decline in muscle mass and strength, which can start in midlife and become more pronounced as individuals age. Sarcopenia is not just a result of disuse or lack of physical activity; it is also influenced by hormonal changes, nutritional factors, and the overall aging process. Recognizing sarcopenia is important in gerontology, as it can lead to decreased functional ability, increased risk of falls, and overall reduced quality of life for older adults.

Osteoporosis refers specifically to a reduction in bone density and an increased risk of fractures, not muscle mass. Cachexia is a complex syndrome often associated with chronic illness and leads to weight loss and muscle wasting but is not solely tied to aging. Atrophy can occur in muscle due to disuse or other factors but does not specifically denote the age-related process seen in sarcopenia. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why sarcopenia is the correct term for age-related muscle mass loss.