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Aging: physiological aspects and clinical implications
1University of Missouri-Columbia School of Nursing.
The Nurse Practitioner
|February 1, 1990
Summary
This article details the physiological changes during aging, distinguishing normal aging from disease. Understanding these normal physiological changes is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively manage elderly clients and prevent misdiagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Physiology
Background:
- Aging is a complex biological process with multiple theories attempting to explain its mechanisms.
- Distinguishing normal aging from age-related diseases is critical for accurate clinical assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the physiological aspects of aging in the absence of disease.
- To discuss the clinical implications of normal aging-related physiological changes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of physiological changes associated with aging.
- Analysis of clinical implications for each physiological system.
Main Results:
- Normal aging involves predictable physiological changes across various body systems.
- These changes can impact sensory functions like vision and hearing, posing potential hazards.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers must recognize normal aging physiology to avoid misdiagnosis and mismanagement.
- Anticipating and assisting elderly clients in adapting to age-related changes is a key role for healthcare professionals.