Effect of aging population

Question 1

What are some overall physiological changes seen with aging

Answer 1

1. Stiffer lung because of loss of synovial fluids between ribs and sternum
2. diaphragm gets weaker because of atrophy
3. lungs becomes more compliant
4. susceptible to respiratory infection
5. renal function declines
6. blood pressure instability

Question 2

effects of aging on structural change in the respiratory system

Answer 2

1. chest wall stiffens
2. kyphoscoliosis
3. atrophy of breathing muscle
4. decrease rib cage and abdominal expansion
5. lung is more compliant
6. **some hyperinflation–>increase deadspace
7. increase VD/VT

Question 3

effects of aging on functional change in the respiratory system (1)

Answer 3

1. decrease gas exchange surface area
2. small airway prone to compression and collapse
   - ->increase resistance, lead to decrease expiratory flow rates
3. decrease VC, FeV1, generally spirometry result

Question 4

effects of aging on functional change in the respiratory system (2)

Answer 4

1. lower /Q ratio in lung basese –> hypoxemia
2. lowered MV
3. decrease hypercapnia , hypoxia ventilatory drive
4. increase risk of community acquired pneumonia, inluenza
5. less effective airway clearnce

Question 5

Effect of aging on the structural changes in cardiovascular system

Answer 5

1. increase arterial wall stiffness
   - ->LV mass increases, increase systolic BP
2. calcifiication, thickening of valve
   - ->mitral regurgitation, atrial dilation then atrial fibrillation

Question 6

Effect of aging on the function changes in cardiovascular system

Answer 6

1. delayed ventircular filling
   - ->Ventricular filling depends MORE on atrial contraction
2. slight decrease resting HR
   - ->Loss of SA node cell
   - ->decrease myocardial responsiveness to B-receptor stimulation
3. postural hypotension can lead to fainting
   - -> baroreceptor doesnt compensate quick enough

Question 7

What is the major age-related impairment?

Answer 7

1. ­ increase vascular resistance
2. decrease response to b-adrenergic stimulation
3. Hampered ventricular relaxation

Question 8

What is the major adaptions

Answer 8

1. left ventricular hypertrophy

2. increase atrial contribution to diastolic filling