Muscle loss isn’t just a normal part of ageing — it’s a major public-health challenge. Sarcopenia, the gradual loss of muscle and strength, affects millions worldwide and is a key driver of frailty, falls, and reduced independence. But research now shows it begins decades earlier than we once thought — meaning prevention has to start well before old age.

In this episode of the #NESIPodcast, Steve speaks with Dr. Lara Vlietstra, Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago. Originally trained as a physiotherapist in the Netherlands, Lara completed two master’s degrees in clinical and geriatric health sciences before earning her PhD on pre-sarcopenia. Her work now spans muscle health, falls prevention, and community-based approaches to healthy ageing.

Together, they explore how sarcopenia develops, what we can do earlier in life to protect strength, and how community-driven research can shape practical solutions that truly work.

Tune in to hear about:
• How sarcopenia is defined — and why early prevention matters
• What Lara’s pre-sarcopenia research reveals about midlife muscle health• How community co-design ensures research reflects lived experience and local context

Lara shares her belief that real progress happens when researchers work with communities, not just on them — bringing together clinical expertise, lived experience, and local partnerships to turn evidence into change.

Connect with Dr. Lara Vlietstra:
📧 [email protected]
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