Geriatric Mental Health Disaster and Emergency Preparedness

NORMAL CHANGES WITH AGING (Continued )
ORGANS/SYSTEM NORMAL CHANGES COMMENTS
Respiration Decreased ability to exchange
oxygen. Less vigorous cough.
Heart and Blood
Vessels
Decreased maximum heart
rate. Decreased elasticity of
blood vessels.
Stomach Questionable slight decrease
in acid production; minimally
slowed emptying of stomach.
Small Intestine Minimal decrease in
absorption.
More at risk for inadequate
oxygen supply when a medical
problem (such as pneumonia)
is added. Increased
risk of pneumonia.
Decreased maximal work.
Increased blood pressure.
Not clinically signifi cant.
Usually not clinically signifi -
cant, but may contribute to
nutrition problems caused
by decreased intake.
Large Intestine Slowed movement of contents. Tendency to constipation.
Liver Decreased blood fl ow to liver
and decreased liver function.
Kidney Decreased ability to excrete
wastes and drugs, to preserve
water, and to get rid of excess
water. One of the most predictable
changes with aging.
Musculoskeletal
Decreased muscle strength;
decreased bone strength.
Genito-urinary Increased urine production at
night. Decreased bladder capacity.
Increased prostate size.
Table 2.1
Usually not clinically
signifi cant.
Increased risk of excess drug
accumulation. Greater risk of
dehydration and fl uid overload.
This is one of the most
clinically signifi cant changes
with aging. Requires careful
management.
Increased risk of weakness
that reduces functional abilities,
particularly the ability
to walk. Physical activity,
especially walking, is one of
the most important methods
of delaying dependence. Bed
rest is a tremendous curse
for the elderly. Increased risk
of fractures, but walking increases
bone strength.
More frequent nighttime
urination, disturbing sleep.
Decreased urine fl ow and
higher risk of urinary retention
and infection in men.