22700124_sFor many older adults, the loss of independence is often considered a fate worse than death.  A 2007 survey of older US adults demonstrated that more seniors feared losing independence (26%) than feared dying (3%).  Unfortunately, functional limitations increase predictably with age due to loss of muscle mass and strength. A new study finds that only 16.1% of older adults reported meeting strength training guidelines.  The study authors state that ‘to maximally improve the public’s health and to properly implement “Exercise is Medicine,” those with the greatest number of functional limitations should be performing strength training the most.  Older patients who have functional limitations often believe they would be physically unable to do activities such as strength training, rather than that they need strength training.’