Older adults tend to lose muscular strength because muscle cells
get larger in size.
attach to the nervous system.
increase in number.
get smaller in size.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer: get smaller in size.
Explanation (300 words):
As people age, one of the most noticeable physical changes is a gradual decline in muscle strength and mass, a condition known as sarcopenia. This loss of strength is primarily because muscle cells (also called muscle fibers) get smaller in size, not larger or more numerous.
Muscle tissue is made up of fibers that contract to produce movement and force. These fibers rely on regular activity and adequate nutrition, especially protein, to maintain their size and function. As we age, several changes occur in the body that contribute to the shrinking (atrophy) of muscle fibers:
- Reduced Physical Activity: Many older adults become less physically active due to lifestyle changes, illness, or mobility issues. Since muscle fibers need to be used regularly to maintain their size, inactivity can lead to muscle wasting.
- Hormonal Changes: Aging is associated with a decline in anabolic hormones such as testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which are crucial for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Neuromuscular Decline: The connection between muscles and nerves weakens with age. When motor neurons (nerve cells that control muscles) die or become damaged, the muscle fibers they control can atrophy if they are not re-innervated by other neurons.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Older adults may not consume enough protein or essential nutrients, which are vital for muscle repair and growth.
Although muscle cells do not usually increase in number in adults, their size (hypertrophy) can increase with strength training. Conversely, without sufficient activity or support, muscle cells shrink in size, leading to a reduction in muscle mass and strength.
Therefore, maintaining an active lifestyle with regular resistance exercise and proper nutrition is essential for preserving muscle strength in older adults.
