ABSTRACT
Atrophy of the brain occurs alongside the natural ageing process. Some sources report that this can start to happen as young as 40 years old but with increasing rate in older age. The adjective ‘frail’ has long been used to describe older people presenting with weakness and reduced function. Both sarcopenia and frailty present with similar symptoms, such as reduced muscle mass, slower ambulatory speed and reduced grip strength, but the effects of frailty reach deeper into the physiological systems, such as the neuromuscular, endocrine, immune, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. It is reassuring knowledge that brain neuroplasticity can continue throughout the lifespan, allowing for the formation of new neural pathways so that older people can benefit from rehabilitation to learn new skills or to slow down further age-related decline. Participating in social activities and engaging in regular conversations can also help with maintaining cognitive and communication skills.
