A "Neuromuscular Look" to sarcopenia: Is it a movement disorder?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Physical function decline is a key factor in sarcopenia and frailty, impacting morbidity and mortality.
• Skeletal muscles generate force for physical tasks, but the central nervous system controls movement execution.
• Aging affects both muscle structure and the neuromotor system's ability to control muscle force.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of aging on neuromotor control and its impact on physical function.
• To explore the relationship between age-related changes in muscle, brain structure, and cognitive function.
• To highlight the necessity of considering neurocognitive aspects in interventions for age-related physical decline.

Main Methods:

• A non-systematic literature review was conducted.
• The review focused on the effects of aging on neuromotor control.
• Literature examined age-related changes in muscle structure, brain volume, and cognitive function.

Main Results:

• Muscle force generation declines with aging due to both muscle structural deterioration and neuromotor dysfunction.
• Age-related cognitive impairments negatively affect skeletal muscle's force-generating capacity.
• A correlation exists between handgrip strength, gait speed, and cognitive function in older adults.

Conclusions:

• Interventions solely targeting muscle mass are insufficient for sarcopenia and frailty; neurocognitive functions must also be addressed.
• Lifelong exercise is essential for healthy aging, preserving muscle mass, strength, physical and cognitive function, and independence.