Aging bodies process protein less efficiently and need more of it to maintain muscle mass and strength. bone health and other essential physiological functions. Even healthy seniors need more protein than when they were younger to help preserve muscle mass. Seniors don't eat an adequate amount due to d appetite dental issues impaired taste swallowing problems and limited financial resources. Combined with a tendency to become more sedentary. this puts them at of deteriorating muscles. compromised mobility slower recovery from bouts of illness and the of independence.