OLDER ADULTS, AGEING & HEALTH

Question 1

Primary Ageing

Answer 1

Unavoidable deterioration of cellular structure and biological function

Question 2

Secondary Ageing

Answer 2

breakdown of cell structure and biological function caused by disease

Question 3

Ageing Effects

Answer 3

Cognitive hearing and impairment.
Risk of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
Impact on social networks and support.
Decline in exercise performance.
Inability to perform daily activities.
Burden on healthcare systems and caregivers

Question 4

Physiological - Heart Rate Reserve (HRR)

Answer 4

HRR = HRmax - Resting HR.
Represents the difference between max HR and resting HR (BPM).
Determines optimum target HR during training.
%HRR used to express exercise intensity.
Easy to measure.
Primary ageing = decrease in HRmax.
Secondary ageing = increase in resting HR.
Primary + Secondary ageing = HRmax.
Increase in resting HR = Decrease in HRR + Aerobic fitness.
Exercise can help control age-related decline in VO2

Question 4

Age-Related Decline - Physiological

Answer 4

Primarily affects heart rate reserve.
Consequences on VO2 max.
Impact on mitochondrial activity and function.
Changes in signaling enzymes and glucose uptake.
Importance of exercise for aerobic metabolism and respiration.
Skeletal muscle atrophy influencing quality of life.

Question 5

Mitochondrial Activity & Function

Answer 5

Converts O2 and nutrients into ATP for energy.
Exercise and muscle contractile activity promote mitochondrial biogenesis and aerobic performance.

Question 6

Skeletal Muscular Atrophy

Answer 6

Progressive or generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength (sarcoopenia).
Risks: age, immobility, malnutrition.
Major contributor to functional decline, disability, dependence, and reduced quality of life.
Atrophy of Type II fibers, especially Type IIx fibers.
Loss of strength, particularly in lower limbs.

Question 7

Neuromuscular Adaptations in Older Adults

Answer 7

Resistance training in older adults shows better neuromuscular adaptations.
Increase in hypertrophy, nerve innervation, strength, and power.

Question 8

Factors Influencing Ageing & Challenges

Answer 8

Environments: barriers and incentives.
Globalization, technology, urbanization, transportation.
Considerations: mobility, disability, independent living.