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Differences in the Neuromuscular Capacity and Lean Muscle Tissue in Old and Older Community-Dwelling Adults

^a School of Health Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
^b School of Leisure Sport and Tourism, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia
^c School of Physical Education, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana

Decision Editor: John E. Morley, MB, BCh

Background. This study investigated whether there was a worsening of the neuromuscular capacity of older adults after the seventh decade of life.

Methods. Fifteen healthy community-dwelling old (<70 years of age) and 15 older adults (70 years of age) were assessed for maximal isometric strength (MVC) and force production characteristics, a one-repetition maximum (1-RM) performance, electromyographic (EMG) activity, and bone-free lean tissue (BFLT) mass of the lower extremity.

Results. The isometric MVC, 1-RM, and BFLT mass values in the old group were significantly greater than in the older group. In addition, the individual BFLT mass values correlated significantly with the isometric MVC values (r = .85) and the 1-RM scores of the thigh muscle groups (r = .54–.80). The old group generated significantly greater isometric maximal rate of torque development than the older group and performed significantly better at all intervals of the absolute and relative force-time curves. The voluntary muscle activation of the knee extensors of the old group produced significantly higher integrated EMG (iEMG) activity at each epoch in the early iEMG–time curve compared with the old group.

Conclusions. The results suggest that the age-related deterioration in maximal strength measures and rapid force production characteristics in older adults could be related to a reduction in the mass and neural activation of the thigh muscles. The deterioration of the neuromuscular system of community-dwelling older adults may contribute to an increased difficulty in performing daily activities and may increase their risks of tripping and falling.