Aging process brings with it myriad type of problems in human body. There is more susceptibility to cancer with age. It is because the metabolism process, that of cell repair and elimination of defective cells lessens. The musculoskeletal system, the gastrointestinal, sexual, and endocrine organs also function at lower than optimum levels.
With aging there is a significant reduction in muscle mass and strength. Spinal disks become thinner, cartilage and ligaments begin a process of degeneration. The tissues are less elastic making the person individual less flexible and mobile. With aging there is a loss of height and an increase in bone fractures. Arthritis is a very common ailment associated with aging leading to greater joint wear and tear.
Aging process also cause the nervous system to be affected. Nerve sensitivity and transmission diminishes, our brain mass decreases in volume, our reflexes slow, and there is a measurable decline in learning capacity and memory. Senility may result from the diminishing nervous system function along with the effects of reduced circulation. There is a 20% chance of those aged above 65 contracting brain degenerative ailments like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Aging causes the energy metabolism rate and thyroid hormone function to diminish thereby decreasing the overall energy level. Lowered insulin sensitivity and pancreatic deficiency lead to diabetes. Body fat percentages including the visceral fat usually increase with age. Men find that their sex drive has been reduced because the levels of sex hormones have declined. Women may suffer from osteoporosis due to lack of progesterone and estrogen. Both men and women may develop arthritis, cancer, heart disease, or stroke.
In short, our ability to function optimally in the world deteriorates and our minds and bodies slow. This is like our biological clock slowly ticking into silence.
