AS parents, we often think of health in terms of weight, diet, or exercise. But there is one key aspect many of us overlook-muscle health. In our rush to balance work, home, and family, we forget that strength isn’t just about lifting or running; it’s the foundation of how we move, age, and care for the people we love.
As the Philippines transitions into an aging society, the growing threat of sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss, has quietly become a national concern. Studies reveal that 7 out of 10 older Filipino adults may already be affected-especially those aged 60 and above (Sun J, Zhang W and Han P (2025): Prospects for the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in the Philippines). This condition, marked by the gradual decline in muscle mass and strength, increases the risk of falls, fractures, and even cognitive decline. It doesn’t just affect the elderly; it affects the whole family-because when a parent or grandparent loses strength, independence and confidence, everyone adjusts.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, around 12 percent of the population will be 65 or older by 2050, compared to just 5.4 percent in 2020 (Philippine Statistics Authority: 2024 Census of Population). This means every Filipino family will eventually feel the effects-caring for aging parents, supporting recovery after illness, or preparing ourselves for the years ahead.
Muscle health matters to us parents. Sarcopenia often begins earlier than we expect. From the age of 40, adults lose up to 8 percent of muscle mass per decade, and the rate accelerates after 60. It’s not only about looking fit-it’s about keeping the strength to carry groceries, lift a grandchild, or stay active during family trips. When muscle weakens, so does immunity, metabolism and balance.
The early signs are easy to dismiss: walking slower, getting tired sooner, or losing weight without trying.But these can lead to serious consequences. Around 30 percent of adults over 65, and half of those over 80, experience a fall each year (WHO, 2004). Imagine the emotional and financial impact on a family when one fall changes everything.
Good news for parents. While aging is inevitable, muscle loss doesn’t have to be. Nutrition is one of the strongest tools we have to preserve strength. Meals rich in high-quality protein-lean meats, fish, eggs, and soy-help repair and build muscle tissue. Even busy parents can integrate small but powerful changes: adding an egg at breakfast, grilled fish for lunch, or a protein drink after an evening walk.
Specialized nutritional supplements also play an important role. Products like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro, formulated with HMB (a muscle-preserving compound) and YBG (a nutrient that supports immune health), help maintain muscle mass and resilience. These ingredients support protein synthesis, enhance recovery, and help maintain a healthy body weight-key factors in maintaining independence.
As Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines, explains: ‘Muscle health is foundational to aging well-not just for mobility, but for immunity, recovery and independence. That’s why Abbott develops science-based nutrition products like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro, to deliver the right mix of protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories our bodies need for healthy aging.’
Families can take simple, daily actions to strengthen muscles and prevent decline:
Stay active together: Walk after dinner, do light squats or wall push-ups, and make movement part of your bonding time. Even household chores count.
Prioritize nutrition: Incorporate protein-rich meals and consider nutritional supplements like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro to fill nutritional gaps.
Schedule regular check-ups: Encourage your parents-and yourself-to monitor gait speed, and other health markers to catch early signs of decline.
Try simple screening tools: Handgrip or sit-to-stand tests or 4-meter gait speed test can reveal early muscle weakness and prompt early intervention.
As parents, we often put our energy into nurturing others-our children, our work, our homes. When we keep ourselves strong, we ensure that we can continue to give, serve, and show up fully for the people who need us. As much as life expectancy is improving, the challenge is no longer just living longer but living stronger.
Whether you’re caring for aging parents, building healthy habits for your children, or simply thinking ahead-remember: it’s never too early, or too late, to protect your family’s strength.