Psychological Changes in the form of Aging

Aging is a normal biological process that entails permanent modifications in the physiological structures and functions of almost all physiological systems. The changes lead to reduced physical and cognitive performance and predisposition to chronic diseases. Cardiovascular aging, with stiffening of the arteries, loss of blood vessel compliance, and a decline in maximal cardiac output, is one of the most obvious changes and it may cause hypertension and cardiac workload increase. The respiratory system is affected by aging causing a loss in the alveolar surface area, decreased elasticity of lung tissues and decreased strength of respiratory muscles hence loss in the efficiency of oxygen exchange. Renal functioning is also impaired and a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) alters the body so that it cannot maintain a normal balance of fluid and electrolytes. The signs of musculoskeletal aging include muscle loss (sarcopenia), reduced bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis), and loss of joint mobility, which lead to reduced mobility and the risk of fractures. Neurological alterations involve slowing the nerve conduction and lower neurotransmitter levels and mild impairments of the mind, but these are strongly different in different human beings. Endocrine changes include dropped levels of hormone production and sensitivity, e.g., decreased insulin sensitivity (likely to develop diabetes type 2), changes in thyroid activity, and reduced levels of sex hormones (e.g. estrogen and testosterone), affecting metabolism, mood and energy. Immunosenescence of the immune system occurs, which is reduced naïve T-cell production, dysfunction in the response to new antigens, and chronic low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), predisposing to infections and autoimmune diseases. Such physiological changes are regulated by genetics, lifestyles, diet, physical exercises, and exposure to the environment. The mechanisms and the course of such changes are important to understand to provide interventions to improve the quality of life, delay frailty and healthy longevity.