Fat tissue may increase toward the centre of the body, including around the abdominal organs. The loss of muscle mass in the legs and changes in body shape can affect her balance, leading to falls. A woman may appear shorter as she ages. This height loss is related to aging changes in the bones, muscles, and joints. Women typically lose about 1 cm ( inches) every 10 years after age 40. Height loss is even greater after 70 years old. In total, she may lose 1 to 3 inches in height in rest of her life. Women usually gain weight.