Many symptoms of sarcopenia and frailty overlap. Both conditions feature weakness, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss. Sarcopenia is a condition that features decreased muscle mass and strength, while frailty is a complex syndrome that arises from multiple health problems. Thus, sarcopenia — which focuses on the size and function of muscle — can be one of the causes of frailty.
What’s the difference between sarcopenia and frailty?
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•Last Updated: April 23, 2025
Sarcopenia and frailty share symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and weight loss, but sarcopenia specifically involves decreased muscle mass and strength, whereas frailty is a broader syndrome that results from multiple health issues. Sarcopenia can contribute to the development of frailty.