As we get older, it’s natural to experience a gradual decline in muscle strength and endurance. But when muscle loss becomes more significant, it’s known as sarcopenia—a condition that affects mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. While exercise and nutrition remain the foundations of prevention, new research suggests that red light therapy (low-level laser therapy, or LLLT) may play a valuable role in helping ageing adults preserve muscle mass and reduce fatigue.
Why Sarcopenia Matters
Sarcopenia affects up to one in three older adults, leading to weakness, increased risk of falls, and reduced ability to perform everyday tasks. This loss of muscle mass is driven by multiple factors, including reduced physical activity, hormonal changes, mitochondrial decline, and chronic inflammation.
The challenge? Even with strength training, some older adults still struggle to maintain optimal muscle health. That’s where therapies targeting cellular energy production—like red light therapy—come into the picture.
How Red Light Therapy Supports Muscle Health
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate mitochondria, the tiny energy-producing structures in our cells. By boosting mitochondrial activity, LLLT helps muscles generate more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel they need for contraction and repair.
For ageing muscles, this translates to:
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Improved endurance – delaying fatigue during exercise
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Faster recovery – supporting repair of microtears after physical activity
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Reduced inflammation – creating a healthier environment for muscle maintenance
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Better mitochondrial function – slowing one of the key drivers of sarcopenia
What the Science Says
A study published in the Journal of Biophotonics found that photobiomodulation therapy improved muscle performance and reduced fatigue by enhancing mitochondrial function (PubMed source). These findings support the idea that light therapy could be used alongside exercise as a strategy to slow age-related muscle decline.
While more human trials are underway, the early research is encouraging—particularly for older adults who want to stay active and independent for longer.
The Feel–Felt–Found Approach
Many ageing adults feel frustrated that, despite eating well and exercising, muscle weakness still progresses over time. Others have felt unsure about trying red light therapy, thinking it might be invasive or complicated. But what researchers and users have found is that it’s a safe, non-invasive therapy that complements daily routines—helping boost muscle performance naturally.
At-Home Use for Ageing Well
The exciting part is that red light therapy doesn’t require daily clinic visits. With devices like the Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy device, older adults can integrate light therapy into their wellness plan at home.
When combined with resistance training, good nutrition, and active living, LLLT may help maintain strength, independence, and vitality well into later years.
Looking Ahead: Stronger Muscles, Healthier Years
Sarcopenia doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of ageing. By boosting mitochondrial activity, reducing inflammation, and supporting muscle recovery, red light therapy offers a promising, drug-free approach to preserving muscle mass and preventing fatigue.
For older adults committed to healthy ageing, it may be the missing piece in maintaining strength and confidence for years to come.
✅ Learn how Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy can support muscle health and active ageing.
References:
Toma RL, Vassão PG, Assis L, Antunes HK, Renno AC. Low level laser therapy associated with a strength training program on muscle performance in elderly women: a randomized double blind control study. Lasers Med Sci. 2016 Aug;31(6):1219-29. doi: 10.1007/s10103-016-1967-y. Epub 2016 Jun 1. PMID: 27250715.
