What condition characterizes the weakening of the bladder muscles as one ages?

The weakening of the bladder muscles as one ages primarily leads to difficulty in urinating. As the bladder muscles lose strength, they may not contract effectively, which can impede the ability to fully empty the bladder. This can cause issues such as hesitancy in starting urination, a weak urine stream, or incomplete bladder emptying.

Additionally, while increased or frequent urination can also occur with aging, they are more typically associated with conditions such as urinary incontinence or overactive bladder rather than the direct result of muscle weakening. Difficulty urinating specifically points to issues with the bladder's ability to function properly, aligning well with the physiological changes that accompany aging. Therefore, recognizing that muscle weakness can lead to challenges in urination is key in understanding the impact of aging on bladder function.