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Muscle Loss (Sarcopenia)

Diseases
Osnat Shamir, Physiotherapist, BPT, MHA, National Physiotherapy Department, Ministry of Health;  Adar Klein Darvin, Physiotherapist, BPT, MSc, National Physiotherapy Department, Ministry of Health
8 January 2026

Muscle loss (sarcopenia) is a medical condition marked by a gradual decline in muscle mass, strength, and physical function. The condition directly affects quality of life and independence and increases the risk of falls, chronic diseases, hospitalization, and even death.

Prevalence

Sarcopenia is common, especially in older adults. Among people over 60, prevalence ranges from 5% to 13%, and in those aged 80 and above, it can reach up to 50%.

Early Signs and Causes

Early signs include weakness, slower walking speed, fatigue with minor effort, and difficulty performing everyday activities such as climbing stairs or rising from a chair. Key factors contributing to sarcopenia include a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, chronic illnesses, and certain medications.

Prevention and Treatment

The good news is that sarcopenia is not inevitable. A combination of tailored physical activity—especially strength and resistance training—along with balanced nutrition and professional monitoring can prevent and even improve muscle condition, even in those already diagnosed. Research shows that exercise benefits are noticeable at any age, including over 80, and help maintain independence, vitality, and quality of life.

The takeaway: The earlier you start, the greater the chance of maintaining full function over the years. Even at an older age, it’s still possible to strengthen the body and enjoy significant improvements in quality of life.

Weakness, fatigue even with minimal effort, or difficulty going down stairs—sound familiar? You may have sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia is a condition characterized by a gradual loss of muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical function.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP), it is one of the leading causes of loss of independence and reduced quality of life in older adults.

Prevalence in the General Population

  • 11%
    Women
  • 9%
    Men

Age-Related Prevalence

  • 5% - 13%
    Over 60
  • 11% - 50%
    Over 80

*More common among those living in care facilities.

Common Symptoms

  • Weakness and fatigue, even with minimal effort.
  • Low energy levels.
  • Slower walking speed.
  • Difficulty with daily activities: rising from a chair, carrying groceries, climbing stairs, opening bottles, or getting out of bed.

Risks

Sarcopenia increases the risk of functional decline, falls, illness, hospitalization, depression, and even higher mortality. A fall that leads to a hip fracture can result in loss of independence, and even falls without fractures can cause various injuries.

Causes

  • Sedentary lifestyle (prolonged sitting).
  • Lack of physical activity.
  • Poor nutrition.
  • Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, or inflammatory conditions.
  • Certain medications, such as high-dose steroids.

Prevention

Sarcopenia is not inevitable—there are several ways to prevent it.

  • Tailored physical activity: Focus on strength and resistance training—weights, resistance bands, bodyweight exercises. Resistance training is recommended at least twice a week.
  • Incorporate activity into daily life: For example, walk instead of driving, use stairs instead of elevators, carry grocery bags, practice repeated sit-to-stand exercises without holding onto support if possible, or with chair support if needed. Learn more about physical exercise for older adults
  • Reduce sedentary behavior.
  • Balanced nutrition. Learn more about nutrition for older adults

Treatment

Research shows that even people already diagnosed with sarcopenia can improve muscle mass, strength, and daily functioning with a personalized program. Don’t wait—consult a physiotherapist now to learn how to prevent or manage sarcopenia.

Physical therapy

Personalized gradual programs that progressively incorporate strength training, tailored to your health, abilities, and lifestyle.

Personalized nutrition

With guidance from a ceritified dietitian.

Medical monitoring

Routine check-ups and tests.

It’s Never Too Late to Start

Research shows that the benefits of strength training are evident at any age, improving muscle mass and strength, as well as overall function and quality of life. The approach is effective even in older adults, with studies showing that people over 80 who begin strength training can still see improvements.

In summary, the earlier you start, the better the chances of maintaining independence, vitality, and quality of life over the years.

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