Aging is a developmental process that begins at birth. While we are all fated to age, how we do so, will depend a great deal on a combination of genetics and environment. While the genes we come into the world which are not something we can control as yet, we can influence our environment to a large degree to help temper some of our genetic heritage. Aging becomes more apparent as an individual approaches mid-life. It is at that point that outward signs and inward changes start to impact how we see ourselves, and how the world sees us.
The environment to a large degree is influenced by our behaviors. For example, we can control the types and quantities of foods we consume. These choices can impact aging tremendously. While diets that are laden with unhealthy fats and sugars may leave us vulnerable to the passage of time, diets rich in vegetables, lean protein and fiber will help repair damage due to everyday exposure to toxins in the environment.
What Are The Changes Brought By Aging?
The average age span is about 77 years for men and 80 for women. This extended lifespan combined with people’s desire to have active senior years has spurned interest to learn all about aging.
Sensory changes start to show up gradually as well. Hearing, smell, taste and vision all begin to show slight declines as people age. However, because people all experience aging differently it’s difficult to offer a time schedule that directs all about aging with precision. Nearly 1/3 of adults have some hearing loss by the time they are 60. In particular, older adults may have trouble detecting high-pitched sounds. They may also have more difficulty discerning conversation in a room with a lot of background music.
By the time adults reach 30 to 40 years they may begin to experience problems with their vision. Though not all people will experience diminished vision, many people report that they have trouble reading and that they need to hold books and newspaper farther away from their bodies. Peripheral vision may also be compromised and eyes may need more time to adjust to changes in lighting.
As people age they are more vulnerable to broken bones because bones may become thinner. Women who are menopausal may be especially vulnerable. Joints and ligaments begin to stiffen as we age because there is a loss of elasticity. In addition, elderly people become more susceptible to tooth loss, heart disease and cancers. While aging is inevitable, the good news is that research all about aging has learned that lifestyle factors like diet and exercise and good medical care can extend the average life span and in the process improve the quality of life as well.
