Which of the following decrease as one ages?

As individuals age, there are significant changes in body composition, making it essential to understand which components decrease. Among these, body weight and lean body mass are notably impacted.

With advancing age, many people experience a decrease in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. This reduction in lean body mass is a natural part of the aging process, which can be influenced by various factors, including decreased physical activity, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. As lean mass decreases, it can affect metabolism and overall body strength, leading to a variety of health challenges.

In contrast, age-related changes in body fat composition can vary. While some individuals may notice an increase in percentage of body fat or adipose tissues, particularly visceral fat, as metabolic processes slow down, this is not consistent for all older adults. Thus, body fat percentage and adipose tissue may not universally decrease with age, as indicated in the other options.

Recognizing the change in lean body mass and body weight is critical for dietary and exercise recommendations in older adults, aiming to mitigate the effects of aging on physical function and health outcomes.