MODULE SUPPLEMENT: MUSCULO-SKELETAL SYSTEM
Muscle Changes and Function with Age

The muscle system has a number of functions that are impacted by the changes that occur with age. These include:

1. Providing support--holding bones in place and helping with posture
2. Allowing for mobility/movement
3. Promoting bone strength and mass
4. Facilitating the movement of blood
5. Assisting in digestion and elimination through gastrointestinal motility
6. Producing heat

Thus changes that occur in the muscles with age contribute to many of the general changes seen with age, such as altered balance, slower reflexes, loss of bone strength and mass, and lower body temperature.