What is Ageing and How Does It Impact Bones and Muscles?
Ageing is a natural and inevitable process that brings about a multitude of changes in the human body. While wisdom and experience are often associated with growing older, physiological transformations occur as we age, affecting various aspects of our health and well-being. Among these changes, alterations in bone density, muscle mass, and joint integrity stand out as critical factors with profound implications for our overall health and quality of life.
The human skeletal system supports our bodies and protects vital organs. Bones are dynamic structures that constantly undergo re-modelling throughout our lives. One of the most significant age-related changes in bones is a decline in bone density, primarily involving the loss of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. This decrease in density contributes to osteoporosis, characterised by fragile bones vulnerable to fractures even with minimal trauma. Osteoporosis is a major public health concern among the elderly, leading to debilitating fractures, decreased mobility, and increased mortality rates.
In addition to changes in bone density, ageing affects muscle mass and function. The natural tendency to lose muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, impacts strength, balance, and physical performance. Sarcopenia involves a reduction in muscle fibres, increased fat infiltration within muscles, and a decline in muscle strength. These changes elevate the risk of falls, fractures, and disability in older adults. Maintaining muscle mass and function through resistance training, adequate protein intake, and lifestyle interventions is crucial for healthy ageing.
