We recognize changes in some people’s posture as they age. Bone density can be lost, and spinal vertebrae can be compressed, making the trunk look shorter or curved. Joints may be stiffer and less flexible.
Muscles can become less dense, making the arms and legs look thinner. Muscle tissue may also become less flexible, and muscles can lose tone, which is harder to replace.
Exercise can help to slow or prevent bone and muscle loss, and good nutrition, including calcium, can help seniors maintain strength and good health.
For details on bone, muscle, and joint changes, including a list of common problems and preventions, see Aging Changes in Bones–Muscles–Joints.
Aging and Organs, Tissue and Cells
Cells are the basic building blocks of tissue and with aging, cells grow larger and less able to reproduce. This can cause connective tissue (bones, blood, and lymph, for example), to become more stiff, which makes blood vessels and organs more rigid. Epithelial tissue (skin) loses fat, and can become thinner and more susceptible to injury. Muscle tissue can lose density, becoming less strong.
As cells and tissues become more rigid, this affects internal organs, especially the heart, lungs and kidneys. Most important, organs can lose their reserve, or ability to increase function at higher levels. Heart failure is an example of an organ's failure to increase its level of functioning during a time of increased stress or activity.
While the effects of aging on cells, tissues and organs are a normal part of aging, the good news is that these changes usually appear over a long period of time, and exercise and good nutrition can play an important part in keeping the body healthy longer. It’s important to check with your health care provider if you have questions about your health or want to make changes to your diet or exercise program.
For more detailed information on how aging affects tissues and organs, plus common problems that can result, see Aging Changes in Organs–Tissues–Cells.
Aging and Hormones
Hormones are natural chemicals produced in the organs of the . They are secreted into the bloodstream to be used by other organs and systems in the body. Aging changes the way hormones are used in the body; some hormone levels decrease, and some are metabolized more slowly.
You’ll find a detailed list of the glands in the endochrine system, the hormones they produce and how these processes are affected by aging in Aging Changes in Hormone Production.
The most important thing to remember is that while aging causes natural changes in the body, your lifestyle plays a big part in optimizing your health.
- Get regular checkups from your health care provider.
- Eat a balanced diet, with good nutrition.
- Get regular exercise.
- Keep a positive mental attitude.
