Samenvatting

As the global population continues to age, maintaining the physical performance and independence of older adults has become a critical public health concern. Population ageing describes a simultaneous increase in the number of older adults and the growth of the oldest- old demographic, which poses substantial societal, economic, and health-related challenges. Worldwide, it has been estimated that by 2050, one in six people will be over the age of 65. In the Netherlands, the number of individuals aged 65 years and older has been predicted to increase from 19.2% in 2020 to 26.5% in 2050, with the number of individuals aged 80 years and older doubling. As a consequence, a growing number of individuals will experience a decline in physical function, which is a critical determinant of maintaining independence, autonomy, and active participation. Muscle strength and power, fundamental components of physical functioning, progressively deteriorate with advancing age, increasing the demand of healthcare systems and contributing to rising health care costs. However, engaging in regular physical activity can attenuate both the individual and societal impacts of ageing by preserving functional capacity, enhancing overall well-being, and promoting social participation. To improve physical functioning in older adults, targeted interventions should incorporate physical activity and emphasize physical functioning as a key determinant of maintaining independence.