老年人的肌肉質量流失

Loss of Muscle Mass in the Elderly

肌肉質量流失（loss of muscle mass）是老化的重要改變之一。肌肉質量流失主要衝擊負責抗重力及行動的第二型肌纖維，除導致老年人肌肉力量及功能狀態的減退，更與罹病率及死亡率高度相關。因此本文將分別說明肌肉質量流失的定義、原因及影響，以期提升臨床醫護人員對老年肌肉質量流失的認識，進而發展相關介入措施，以延緩老年人的肌肉質量流失。

Loss of muscle mass is an important aging change. Such muscle losses are predominantly in type II fast- twitch fibers, which are antigravity muscles involved in transferring and ambulation. Muscle power and performing activities of daily living are, therefore, likely be compromised. Studies have shown that loss of muscle mass correlates highly with morbidity and mortality in the elderly. This article aimed to briefly review the loss of muscle mass in the elderly, including its definition, etiology, and impact. We hope by increasing the awareness among professionals, early detection and timely intervention could be taken to improve care.