Research: Muscle Strength Key for Healthy Aging in Women Over 60

Study finds grip strength and chair stand ability strongly linked to lower mortality rates in older women

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A new study from the University at Buffalo found that maintaining muscle strength, as measured by grip strength and chair stand ability, is just as important as aerobic activity for healthy aging in women over 60. The study of over 5,000 women aged 63-99 showed that higher muscle strength was associated with significantly lower mortality rates over an 8-year period, even after accounting for physical activity levels, cardiovascular fitness, and inflammation.

Why it matters

As the population of women aged 80 and older continues to grow rapidly, the findings highlight the critical importance of monitoring and maintaining muscular strength in older adults for public health. Muscle strength enables mobility and daily activities, which are key for healthy aging.

The details

The study found that for every 7 kilograms of additional grip strength, there was a 12% lower mortality rate. And moving from the slowest to fastest time in 6-second increments for the chair stand test resulted in a 4% lower mortality rate. These associations held true even for women who did not meet current physical activity guidelines, showing the independent importance of muscle strength.

  • The study was published on February 13, 2026 in JAMA Network Open.
  • The study followed the women over an 8-year period.

The players

Michael LaMonte

The lead author of the study and a research professor of epidemiology and environmental health at the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions.

University at Buffalo

The institution that led the research study on the importance of muscle strength for healthy aging in older women.

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What they’re saying

“If you don't have enough muscle strength to get up, it is going to be hard to do aerobic activities, such as walking, which is the most commonly reported recreational activity in U.S. adults ages 65 and older.”

— Michael LaMonte, Research Professor

“Healthy aging probably is best pursued through adequate amounts of both aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activities. When we no longer can get out of the chair and move around, we are in trouble.”

— Michael LaMonte, Research Professor

What’s next

Older adults should consult with their healthcare providers about safely beginning muscle-strengthening exercises, and those unfamiliar with these activities should work with a physical therapist or exercise specialist to develop targeted strength goals.

The takeaway

This study underscores the critical importance of maintaining muscle strength, not just aerobic fitness, for healthy aging in older women. Simple exercises like using resistance bands or even household items can help women over 60 preserve the muscle strength needed for mobility and daily activities.