"Sarcopenia is now recognized as a major clinical problem for older people."

Poorer health influences muscle strength in later life

Accelerated loss of muscle mass and strength in older age is called sarcopenia, and can in turn affect balance, gait and overall ability to perform tasks of daily living. It is common in older people and is associated with disability, a higher risk of mortality and significant health care costs.

Professor Cyrus Cooper, Director of the MRC LEU, said: "Sarcopenia is now recognised as a major clinical problem for older people. We know that poor diets and being physically inactive are common in older age and contribute to the condition.