What are Common Physiological Changes in Aging Patients?
Aging brings about several physiological changes that nurses must consider:
- Cardiovascular: Reduced cardiac output and arterial stiffening. - Respiratory: Decreased lung elasticity and weaker respiratory muscles. - Musculoskeletal: Loss of muscle mass and bone density. - Renal: Decline in kidney function and glomerular filtration rate. - Immune System: Reduced immune response, making older adults more susceptible to infections.
