When we get older, the amount of fat in our bodies changes, and where that fat sits can move deeper inside.
Most fat lives just under the skin. This skin‑fat is called subcutaneous fat. It is not dangerous and actually helps keep us healthy. The risky kind is called visceral fat. It hides inside the belly, wraps around organs, and can lead to diabetes and heart disease.
The Hormone Connection
Researchers have learned that hormones, especially testosterone, affect how fat moves around as we age.
"As men and women grow older, fat shifts from safe places to the belly area," explains Jacob Earp, a professor of kinesiology. "Sex hormones are directly linked to this shift."
Most weight‑loss programs only aim to shrink overall weight. They do not target visceral fat on its own, and they can also cause muscle loss, which is not good for older adults.
Testing Testosterone Gel and Exercise
Earp led a study to see if a skin‑applied testosterone gel, combined with a workout plan, could help older women heal after a hip fracture.
Hip fractures are a big problem for women over 65. They happen almost three times more often in women than men and often lead to loss of independence.
How the Trial Worked
Sixty‑six women aged 65 and older, all recovering from a recent hip fracture, joined the trial. Each woman first received a DXA scan to measure muscle and fat.
All participants followed the same exercise routine. Only one group also applied the testosterone gel each day.
What the Results Showed
Six months later, follow‑up scans showed that total body fat stayed about the same in both groups. The big difference was where the fat was stored.
Women who used the testosterone gel had less visceral fat. The women who did not use the gel actually gained more belly fat, which is typical after a hip injury.
"Usually, an injury and aging mean more belly fat," says Earp. "The gel turned that trend around and lowered the dangerous fat in the abdomen."
Why This Matters
The study points to a new way to help older women recover faster and stay healthier after serious injuries.
"These injuries can ruin a woman's independence," Earp notes. "Any safe treatment that improves health can dramatically boost quality of life."