Week 4: Biological Aging - What is Normal? Flashcards
decreased normal activity in the occipital lobe is a normal age-related change
FALSE
“normal” aging consists of…
gradual loss of cognitive and functional capacity
“successful” aging is…
the ability to maintain adequate mobility, strength, physical functioning, and general health
changes in appearance with age
- skin
- loss of hair (androgenetic alopecia)
- changes in body build
- changes in posture
age-related changes in skin
- thinning epidermis
- loss of subcutaneous fat
- fewer active hair follicles
- reduced sweat gland activity
age-related changes in body build
- decreased fat-free mass (muscle, tissue)
- increased BMI
- weight fluctuates in a U-trend throughout life
changes in mobility with age
- impaired balance
- decreased strength
- fear of falling
- sarcopenia
- decreased bone mass (remodelling)
- degeneration of joints (overuse)
changes in vital bodily functions with age
- cardiovascular system
- respiratory system
- urinary system
- digestive system
- brain changes
age-related changes in cardiovascular system
- increased plaque
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- vascular stiffening and weakening of arteries
- decreased aerobic capacity (VO2)
changes in bodily control systems with age
- endocrine system
- weakened immune system
- difficulties sleeping
- decreased regulation of body temperature
- vestibular dysfunction (balance, dizziness)
- losses/deficiencies in all 5 senses
activities of daily living (ADL)
basic personal-care activities
ex. bathing, dressing, eating, toileting
instrumental activities of daily living (IADL)
more complex activities
ex. visiting neighbours, shopping, cooking, washing clothes, exercising, taking public transportation
mechanisms/factors that contribute to functional decline
highlighted:
- mitochondrial dysfunction
- inflammation
- hormonal changes
- self-regulatory and emotional-regulatory strategies
lectured:
- depression
- air pollution
- extreme temperature fluctuations
- mobility barrier within living environments
TB: how do changes in physical functioning interact with psychological and sociocultural factors to influence an older adults’ identity? (example)
if part of your identity was being an athlete and now have mobility issues and can no longer do that sport, will lose part of identity
TB: what psychosocial changes tend to occur as people reach advanced age?
- friends/family passing away
- retirement
- grandchildren
- empty nest syndrome
- transition to living in a different environment
- experiencing ageism
