Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

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By the age of 75, what percentage of total body muscle mass does the average person have?

  1. 5%

  2. 15%

  3. 25%

  4. 35%

The correct answer is: 15%

By the age of 75, it is generally accepted that the average person has about 15% of their total body muscle mass remaining compared to their peak muscle mass in early adulthood. This decline in muscle mass is a normal part of aging, known as sarcopenia, which significantly impacts physical function and overall health in older adults. It is crucial to understand that this reduction in muscle mass can lead to various health issues, including frailty and decreased mobility. The percentage reflects the cumulative effects of the aging process, which includes not only loss of muscle fibers but also changes in the muscle's physiological properties and the innervation of those muscles. The other options do not align with the widely recognized data regarding age-related muscle loss. For instance, a figure as high as 25% or more would suggest that by 75, an individual retains a significant portion of their muscle mass, which overlooks the substantial decline that typically occurs throughout the aging process. Thus, 15% represents a more accurate assessment of muscle mass retention at this age.

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