Lecture Notes on Physiologic Changes of Aging Prepared By: Mark Fredderick R Abejo R.

N, MAN Clinical Instructor

Physiologic Changes of Aging

System Integumentary Alteration Loss of moisture and elasticity Thinning of epithelial layer Spots and lesions may develop Facial features more prominent Declining visual acuity (Presbyopia, ability to see in dark and adapt to abrupt changes, ambient light needed) Subtle auditory changes (Presbycusis) Decreased sense of smell Decreased salivary secretions Change in configuration of thorax ( AP diameter) respiratory muscle strength Chest wall stiffens lung expansion myocardial contraction strength ( cardiac output) pulse rate systolic or diastolic blood pressures may be abnormally high (not a normal result of aging, common chronic conditions contribute) Weaker peripheral pulses Smaller due to decreased muscle mass, tone and elasticity Sag fatty tissue in the trunk abdomen in size muscle tone protuberant abdomen slowing of peristalsis and alteration in secretions change in structure and function due to hormonal alterations BPH Incontinence (especially stress) size of muscle fiber (decline in muscle mass) diminishing muscle strength declining bone mass sense of balance uncoordinated motor responses alterations in quality and quantity of sleep declining number of neurons (begins in second decade

Head and Neck

Thorax and Lungs

Heart and Vascular

Breasts

GI and Abdomen

Reproductive Urinary Musculoskeletal

Neurological