The gradual loss of muscle that often comes with aging may do more than make everyday tasks harder. The elevated risk extended to respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and sepsis. Researchers found a graded pattern: people with low muscle mass were at increased risk of infection, while those with more advanced sarcopenia faced an even greater risk. He noted that the new findings showed people with sarcopenia faced a substantially higher risk of infections over time, including respiratory infections and sepsis. However, he cautioned that the research demonstrates an association rather than proving that muscle loss directly causes infections.