The importance of resistance training in the treatment of sarcopenia

Abstract

Utilizing individualized exercise training programs that are inclusive of appropriate resistance training protocols can attenuate the deleterious effects of sarcopenia and enhance quality of life, functional capacity and also diminish its negative effect on independence.   Nurses should be educated in how the utilization of proper resistance training (RT) in individuals can be used to ameliorate the effect of sarcopenia, especially considering its relationship to Quality of Life (QoL), functional capacity and independence.  In part, this educational process should include how to refer patients to an appropriate healthcare provider trained in assessing sarcopenia and the use of resistance training.  However, it is especially important that the provider be an expert on RT that enhances lean muscle, muscular strength, muscular endurance, power, balance and stamina.  Therefore, it is vital that nurses have an opportunity to define and recognize how resistance training can be prescribed, ultimately for primary prevention but also as an effective treatment module in enhancing the health outcomes related to QoL, functional capacity and independence.