Geriatrics

Essay

Physiological Changes on Older Adults

This written report tackles about the physiological changes in various body

system cause by aging. It focuses on changes in specific system like

integumentary, musculoskeletal and respiratory system and its impacts to the

health of older adults. Physiologic changes like decreased in body functions,

integrity and processes are inevitable because it is part of aging process.

In the integumentary or the skin, changes can cause by two factors, first

is the aging itself and other is sun exposure and environmental factors. The

aging skin will decrease skin turgor that is associated with severe dehydration

and/or extreme weight loss. The skin will be prone to bruising and tearing and its

healing will become poor, nail growth will decrease, loss of elasticity and thinning

of hair and baldness. Conditions like xerosis (dry skin), anhidrosis (absence of

sweating), hypohidrosis (inadequate sweating) and vitiligo (skin pigment cell

loss) and formation of seborrheic dermatitis and keratosis can occur. Skin aging

can also affect the blood flow that associated with the skin cooling as evidence

by numbness of legs and hands and blue-tinged limbs. Medications like topical

corticosteroids can also weaken the skin and blood vessels.

The musculoskeletal system is also weaken by aging, the bones become

rigid and brittle. The muscle mass and strength will decrease as we age.

Cartilage component of joints will be altered that make the joints susceptible to

damage. Alterations in bones, fibers, cartilages, ligaments and tendons will

make the musculoskeletal decrease the mobility, range of motions, flexibility,

coordination and stability. Osteoporosis, is a common condition of older adults.

Some conditions like sarcopenia, arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteomalacia and

rheumatoid arthritis can also occur.

Respiratory functions can also be affected as we age. Aging will weaken

the respiratory muscles, tissues and organs that can lead to decreased

capabilities and effectiveness of the lungs. Respiratory defenses like cough

reflex that is essential for airway clearance will be affected. For older adults,

ability to inhale and exhale also decreases. Weaken respiratory system also

increases the risk of development of such conditions like pneumonia.