The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a traditional Chinese medicine formula called "Huangjing Yangji Formula," combined with elastic band resistance training, works better than exercise alone to improve physical function and muscle strength in older adults with sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss). The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does the combined treatment improve participants' overall physical performance scores more than exercise with a placebo?
Does it lead to better outcomes in walking speed, balance, muscle strength, body composition, nutrition, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life?
Researchers will compare two groups. One group will take the real Huangjing Yangji Formula granules and do the standardized elastic band resistance training. The other group will take placebo granules (a look-alike mixture with no active medicine) and do the same training.
Participants will:
Take the assigned granules twice daily for 3 months.
Complete a standardized elastic band exercise program 3 times per week for 3 months (with both group and home sessions).
Attend three assessment visits (at the start, after 3 months, and 1 month after treatment) for tests and questionnaires.
Provide blood samples at the start and after 3 months for routine safety tests and special muscle health markers.