5 Ways to Prevent Muscle Wasting in the Elderly
By: Ipsita Roy, M.Sc. (Systems Biology) DLHA Volunteer. Reviewed by: Rukhsar Jabbar. M.Sc. (Physiotherapy)
December 12 2025
An image captioned "5 ways to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly".
It shows a cartoon drawing of an elderly African couple.
The woman is sitting on a stool with folded clothes in a basket, thinking about when she was stronger. The man is holding a long broom in one hand, with his other hand on his aching back, thinking about his past, stronger self.
Click on the image to enlarge.
Info poster captioned "Why muscle wasting matters in the elderly?"
Poster contains images showing how muscle wasting affects the health and wellbeing of the elderly.
These include falls, fractures, hospital visits and loss of independence.
Click on the image to enlarge.
Info poster captioned: "So how can you prevent muscle wasting?"
It indicates that 25% of Africans are affected by age related muscle wasting generally,
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Info poster on tip #1, how to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly titled: "Walk safely"
The technique of using heel-to-toe method of walking is shown. It is advised to walk at a comfortable pace.
Clcik on the image to enlarge.
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Info poster on tip #2, how to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly titled: "Sit to stand or chair rise":
The technique of sit-to-stand or chair rise is illustrated.
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Info poster tip #3, how to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly titled: "Stretch, stretch, stretch away".
Different types of stretches are shown.
Dynamic stretches like arm circles, high knee and ankle rotations should be done before exercise.
Static stretches like standing calf stretch, shoulder stretch and knee to chest are for the
post-exercise session.
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Info poster on tip #4, how to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly titled: "Dance and enjoy".
Pictures of Africans engaging in different dance activities are shown.
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Info poster on tip #5, how to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly titled: "Rest, Eat and Exercise".
Images show scenes of Africans eating nutritious food, resting and doing exercises.
Click on the image to enlarge.
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Info poster titled "Safety tips".
These tips include:
- Talking with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your daily routine
- Using support as necessary and
- Avoiding pain.
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Info poster on a Call to action for the elderly to start today and engage in activities to prevent muscle wasting.
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Info poster showing attributions to the presentation on 5 ways to prevent muscle wasting in the elderly.
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Published: December 12, 2025
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