ageing

Question 1

non modifiable risk factors of ageing

Answer 1

age itself
non white ethnicity
being male or female
family history of disease

Question 2

medically modifiable risk factors of ageing

Answer 2

atrial fibrillation
metabolic syndrome
obstructive sleep aponea
increased BP
side effects of medication

Question 3

behaviourally modifiable risk factors of ageing

Answer 3

physical inactivity
dietary choices
cigarette use
overweught and obesity

Question 4

biological declines in functional capacities

Answer 4

aerobic power which is important such as walking to shops
muscular stregnth
lung function
resting metabolic rate

Question 5

muscle stregnth and the life course

Answer 5

5-10% muscle mass
decreases due to number and
size of muscle fibres becoming
lower
* Strength falls slowly until age
50 then a more rapid decline.
* Power decreased due to
slower muscular contractions
and increased loss of fast
twitch fibres

Question 6

respiratory system

Answer 6

• Functional lung reserves for aerobic
  work efforts are decreased
• Ability to deliver oxygen to the body’s
  working cellular systems limited
• Reduction in alveolar performance
• Reduction in elasticity, loss of
  diaphragm strength
• However, this decrease in respiratory
  performance can be significantly influenced by regular training

Question 7

cardiovascular system

Answer 7

• The valves of the heart thicken and become
  stiffer.
• The number of pacemaker cells decrease and
  fatty & fibrous tissues increase about the SA
  node. These changes may result in a slightly
  slower heart rate.
• A slight increase in the size of the heart,
  especially the left ventricle, is common
• Insulin secretion from beta cells in pancreas
  decreases
• Glucagon cells from alpha cells is less affected
  by aging
• Arteries tend to become stiffer (arteriosclerosis)
• Life-long build up of plaques (atherosclerosis

Question 8

immune system

Answer 8

• The efficiency of the immune system declines with
  age, but this is variable
• The ability of the body to make antibodies
  diminishes
• Autoimmune disorders are increased in older
  adults
   Lupus
   Multiple Sclerosis
   Guillain-Barre Syndrome
• The thymus gland (which produces hormones that
  activate T cells) atrophies throughout life.
• Common infections more severe
• Slower recovery & decreased chances of
  developing adequate immunity

Question 9

nervous system

Answer 9

• Neuronal loss in the brain throughout life (the
  amount & location varies).
• Slowed neuronal transmission.
• Changes in sleep cycle:
   Takes longer to fall asleep
   Total time spent sleeping is less than their
  younger years
   Awakenings throughout the night
   Increase in frequency of daytime naps.
• Sense of smell markedly decreases.

Question 10

PA reccomendations for over 65s

Answer 10

• aim to be physically active evry day
• do activities to improve stregnth, balance and flexibility at least 2 days a week
• do at least 150 mins of moderate intensity activity a week of 75 mins of vigorous intensity activity

Question 11

benefits of pa

Answer 11

Cardiovascular Health: Regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.

Muscle Strength and Bone Health: Exercise helps maintain muscle mass and bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Joint Flexibility and Mobility: Physical activity promotes joint flexibility and range of motion, enhancing mobility and reducing stiffness.

Cognitive Function: Exercise improves cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity, potentially lowering the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

Mental Health: Physical activity reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, improving overall well-being and quality of life.

Metabolic Health: Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Weight Management: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity related health problems.

Social Engagement: Group physical activities promote social interaction and community involvement, reducing feelings of isolation.

Question 12

risks of pa

Answer 12

Risk of Injury: Aging bodies may be more prone to strains, sprains, and fractures during physical activity.

Cardiovascular Risks: Intense exercise without proper conditioning can pose risks to older adults with underlying heart conditions.

Overexertion: Excessive physical activity can lead to fatigue, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses in older adults.

Balance and Falls: Activities requiring balance or agility may increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Joint Problems: High-impact activities can exacerbate joint pain or arthritis if not performed with proper technique and precautions.