Natural Changes with Age: Consequences of Aging (Ageging),
As we age, most of the body's organs perform less efficiently. Our vision and hearing power deteriorate, muscle strength weakens, immune system weakens, skin and blood vessels become less flexible, and there is an overall decline in body performance. Following changes may occur as we age.
Heart Heart muscle becomes less efficient. Blood vessels become less elastic. Fatty deposits may form on the walls of arteries. As a result of this, the arteries become stiffer, needing heart to work harder, leading to high blood pressure (hypertension).
Brain and nervous system The number of neurons in brain decreases. Memory becomes less efficient. Reflexes become slower. Coordination decreases.
Bones and joints Bones shrink in size, their density reduces and become more susceptible to fracture. Muscles, tendons and joints lose flexibility and strength.
Digestive system Digestion may slow down. Constipation.
Kidneys, bladder and urinary tract Kidneys become less efficient. Loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence).
Eyes Eyes produce less tears, retinas thin and lenses gradually become less clear. Cataract, glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Teeth Dry mouth - mouth feels drier and your gums have pulled back. Teeth may become more brittle. Oral cancer is more common among aged people.
Ears Hearing loss. Sounds and noise can damage the hair cells of inner ears. The walls of auditory canals thin. Eardrums thicken.
Aging Skin Skin thins and becomes less elastic and more fragile. Skin drier and more wrinkles. Age spots Skin tags. Skin cancer possibility.
Sleep Disturbed sleep Waking up several times each night.
Weight & metabolism Metabolism generally slows down. Calories not utilized efficiently and stored as fat. Weight gain as level of activity may decrease.
Sexuality Sexual performance may change. Women: vagina walls become less elastic, vaginal dryness. Men: may become impotent.
Q & A Forum
