As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass, a condition known as sarcopenia. This loss of muscle mass can lead to frailty, weakness, and an increased risk of falls, making it more difficult for older adults to maintain their independence and quality of life.
According to a study by Janssen (1), sarcopenia is caused by a combination of factors,
including aging, inactivity, and hormonal changes. Another study by Rolland (2)
found that sarcopenia is a predictor of functional, psychological, and general
health status in community-dwelling older people. Sarcopenia is defined as a
decline in muscle mass, muscle strength, and muscle function (3).
The consequences of sarcopenia are severe, particularly for older adults. A
systematic review and meta-analysis by Rantanen (4) found that sarcopenia is
associated with falls in older adults. Roubenoff (5) also found that sarcopenia
is linked to physical frailty in older adults.
Fortunately, recent research has found a new way to maintain muscle mass and prevent
sarcopenia in older adults. A study by Baker et al (6) found
that using a Vestims active mattress can increase fat-free mass by 520 grams in 8
weeks without the need for clinical intervention. All participants had to do
was get 8 hours of bed rest each day. This is a significant increase and can be
a game-changer for older adults who want to maintain muscle mass, improve
physical function, and prevent sarcopenia.
It's important to note that this study has a small sample size, and more research is needed to
confirm these findings, understand the mechanism behind the increase in
fat-free mass, and evaluate the long-term effects of using this mattress.
However, the results are promising and suggest that using an active mattress
may be an alternative way to maintain muscle mass and prevent sarcopenia in
older adults.
In conclusion, sarcopenia is a serious condition that can lead to frailty,
weakness, and an increased risk of falls in older adults. However, recent
research has found that using an active mattress can increase fat-free mass by
520 grams in 8 weeks, providing a new way to maintain muscle mass and prevent
sarcopenia.
References:
1. Janssen I. Sarcopenia: causes, consequences, and preventions. J Appl Physiol. 2004;96(5):1118-1124.
2. Rolland Y, Czerwinski S, Abellan van Kan G, et al. Sarcopenia as a predictor of functional, psychological and general health status in community-dwelling older people. Age Ageing. 2008;37(5):505-511.
3. Cruz-Jentoft AJ, Baeyens JP, Bauer JM, et al. Sarcopenia: definition, epidemiology and pathogenesis. Age Ageing. 2010;39(4):412-423.
4. Rantanen T, Volpato S, Ferrucci L, et al. Sarcopenia and its association with falls in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2003;51(5):625-631.
5. Roubenoff R. Sarcopenia and physical frailty in older adults. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2004;59(3):M532-M534.
6. Baker G, Bloxham S, Laden J, Gush R. Vascular endothelial function is improved after active mattress use. J Wound Care. 2019 Oct 2;28(10):676-682. doi: 10.12968/jowc.2019.28.10.676. PMID: 31600104.