Aging and Body Systems

Aging and Body Systems

Skin

Aging causes the diminished ability of the skin to produce Vitamin D due to reduced keratinocytes. The other effect of aging is the decreased elastic and strength of the skin due to the thinning of the dermis and decreased fibro-blasts (Aldwin, & Gilmer, 2013, p. 87).

Musculoskeletal

One of the effects of aging on the musculoskeletal system is increased bone loss and weakness (p. 93). The other effect is the stiffening and shortening of tendons and ligaments leading to decreased range of motion (p. 95).

Cardiovascular

The increase in the size of myocytes with aging causes the heart mass to increase. Furthermore, the heart’s electrical activity declines with age due to the loss of the pacemaker cells (p. 108).

Respiratory

The intercostal and diaphragm muscles weaken with age. Furthermore, the elasticity of the lung tissue reduces due to the decline in collagen and elastin (p. 118).

Gastrointestinal

The ability of the small intestine to absorb nutrients such as Vitamin D and B12 declines with age (p. 126). Another effect of aging is the thinning and weakening of the lining and muscles of the large intestine.

Renal

The renal mass and number of nephrons and glomeruli decline with age. Furthermore, the balder capacity and ability to empty the bladder completely decline with age (p. 136). Men’s prostate gland also enlarges.

Endocrine

The production of hormones that regulate growth, anabolism and electrolyte balance decreases with age. The decline in hormones such as melatonin causes changes in diurnal rhythms (p. 171).

Reproductive

The testosterone levels, and sperm and semen production decrease with age in men. On the other hand, women enter menopause and the menstrual cycles cease.

 Neurological

The number of neurons in the brain and spinal cord declines with age leading to poor memory and reflexes (p. 156). Furthermore, the white matter decreases leading to cognitive slowing.

Immune System

The production of B and T cells declines with age leading to weakened immune responses (Massoud & Rezaei, 2013). Furthermore, the normal immune processes start to fail and lead to autoimmune diseases increases.

Aging and Body Systems