Tendons are important for optimal muscle force transfer to bone and play a key role in functional ability. Changes in tendon properties with aging could contribute to declines in physical function commonly associated with aging. We investigated the in vivo mechanical properties of the patellar tendon in 37 men and women (11 young (27±1 yr) and 26 old (65±1 yr)) using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patella displacement relative to the tibia was monitored with ultrasonography during ramped isometric contractions of the knee extensors and MRI was used to determine tendon cross-sectional area (CSA) and signal intensity. At peak force, patellar tendon deformation, stress, and strain were 13% (p=0.05), 19%, and 12% less in old compared to young (p<0.05). Additionally, deformation, stiffness, stress, CSA, and length were 18, 35, 41, 28, and 11% greater (p<0.05), respectively in men when compared to women. After normalization of mechanical properties to a common force, no age differences were apparent; however, stress and strain were 26 and 22% higher, respectively in women when compared to men (p<0.05). CSA and signal intensity decreased 12 and 24%, respectively with aging (p<0.05) in the mid-region of the tendon. These data suggest that differences in patellar tendon mechanical properties with aging are more related to force output rather than an age effect. In contrast, the decrease in signal intensity indirectly suggests that the internal milieu of the tendon is altered with aging; however, the physiological and functional consequence of this finding requires further study.