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Summary
Facial morphology, including lip wrinkles and sagging, can indicate advanced age. Specific facial lines, like the sulcus nasolabialis and sulcus tristitiae, are reliable indicators of aging.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Facial Morphology
Background:
- This study investigates the morphological and functional changes in the lips and surrounding labial regions of elderly individuals.
- The research examines 80 subjects aged 66 to 92 years.
Observation:
- Five distinct types of lip and labial region morphology were identified, ranging from no wrinkles to sagging lower lips.
- These morphological types often correlated with the subjects' overall appearance, gait, and psychosomatic status.
Findings:
- The simultaneous presence of marked sulcus nasolabialis and sulcus tristitiae is a significant indicator of old age.
- Lonely elderly individuals frequently exhibit pronounced sulci tristitiae and numerous small wrinkles.
- Observed morphologic and functional changes are primarily linked to psychovegetative disposition, not clinical laboratory parameters.
Implications:
- The findings offer insights into geriatric therapy, prognosis, and rehabilitation strategies.
- Understanding these age-related facial changes may aid in the prevention of certain geriatric conditions.
- This research contributes to a more holistic approach in geriatric care, considering psychosomatic factors.