Week 2 - Musculoskeletal and Nervous System Aging Changes Flashcards
What is Sarcopenia?
Sarco means “flesh”
Sarcomere is the contractile unit of muscle.
Penia means “lack, deficiency”
Age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and function.
How can Sarcopenia be prevented?
Prevention includes resistance training and healthy diet.
What is Tendon Fibrosis?
It’s when tendons become less flexible due to increased fibrous tissue.
What is the impact of Tendon Fibrosis?
It contributes to decreased mobility and an increased risk of injury.
What happens to reflexes with age?
Reflex responses become slower, contributing to a higher risk of falls and injuries.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteo - bone
Osis - condition
Significant bone loss leading to weakened bones.
How can Osteoporosis be minimized?
Through resistance training, and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
What are some brain changes due to aging?
The brain shrinks due to loss of neurons, leading to reduced cognitive function.
What does reduced nerve conducting velocity result in?
Slower reaction times and cognitive processing.
What changes occur in sleep patterns for older adults?
Older adults wake up more frequently during the night, affecting sleep quality.
What overall impact do these changes have on older individuals?
There’s a high risk of falls and injuries due to muscle and bone changes, decreased reflexes, and neurological changes.
Functional changes and clinical manifestations related to age and the musculoskeletal system?
Decreased muscle mass (arms greater than legs) and decreased muscle strength
Slower recovery following injury
Decreased bone mass
Reabsorbtion of bone exceeds formation (define osteopenia, osteoporosis)
Decreased osteoblast number but unchanged osteoclasts
Decreased articular cartilage thickness
Decreased cartilage tensile stiffness
Decreased water content of cartilage
Decresaed joint range of motion and flexibility
