Older adults tend to lose muscular strength because muscle cells get larger in size. attach to the nervous system i. increase in number. get smaller in size.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: get smaller in size.
Explanation (Approx. 300 words):
As people age, one of the most noticeable physical changes is a loss of muscular strength and mass, a condition known as sarcopenia. This condition typically begins around the age of 30 and progresses more noticeably after the age of 60. One major reason older adults lose muscular strength is because muscle cells (also known as muscle fibers) get smaller in size, a process called atrophy.
There are two main types of muscle fibers: slow-twitch (Type I) and fast-twitch (Type II). Aging primarily affects the fast-twitch fibers, which are responsible for quick and powerful movements. As people age, these fibers shrink in size and may even die off if not regularly used through physical activity. In addition to the reduction in fiber size, there’s often a decrease in the number of muscle fibers, which further contributes to weakness.
Another contributing factor is the decline in motor neuron function. Motor neurons are nerves that control muscle movement. As people get older, some motor neurons die or become less effective, which causes the muscle fibers they control to become inactive and eventually shrink.
Hormonal changes also play a role. Decreased levels of testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) contribute to reduced muscle protein synthesis and regeneration, making it harder to maintain muscle mass.
Regular resistance training and physical activity can help slow or partially reverse this muscle loss. Exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis and helps maintain motor neuron connections, keeping muscles larger and stronger for longer.
In summary, older adults lose muscle strength mainly because muscle cells shrink in size, not because they get bigger or increase in number. Staying active is key to preserving strength and independence with age.