Mind and Body Changes in Seniors

Everyone ages differently, but nearly all of us experience similarities in the aging process.  Nearly everyone will get wrinkles around the eyes, yet not everyone will get glaucoma.  Most every senior will experience stiff and aching joints at some point, but not all will have to undergo knee-replacement surgery.  And while many aging seniors will forget where they put their keys, not all will develop Alzheimer’s. 

Understanding how the mind and body change with age is essential for living a happy and healthy life as far into old-age as possible.  Many things will change as you age, but your willingness to change or accept them shouldn’t.

Sleeping Habits Change

Seniors on average get less sleep then their younger counterparts.  But studies also suggest that seniors are not getting the sleep they need.  Many older adults have trouble getting to sleep and spend less time in deep REM sleep as well.  Waking-up often can also be a problem that many seniors experience, while still others suffer from insomnia. 

Oftentimes checking with your doctor can be a good idea.  Whether you’re waking-up more than usual because of a smaller bladder or not getting enough sleep because of sleep apnea, a quick consultation could allay any fears you might have.

And So Does Digestion

The body processes food differently as we get older, and many seniors find they don’t quite need what they used to in the way of calories.  Digestion overall slows, and eating less is a good idea because of it. 

As we age, our chances of developing gastrointestinal problems increase.  Instances of heartburn can increase in seniors, and could develop into Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which is a serious ailment that can cause the stomach contents to leak back up into the esophagus. 

The Mind Goes Next

Studies have shown that far from becoming set in our ways, we often take a different look at viewpoints we once opposed.  Studies involving over 46,000 Americans between the years 1972 and 2004 have shown that rigidly-held beliefs give way over time.  Attitudes toward politics become more relaxed (dare I say liberal?) over time, and so do our views on economics, gender, race, and even religion.  While it’s probably too early to break-out the tie-die T-shirts just yet, understanding that new ways of thinking still come about in old age is essential to our understating of those aging around us.

And Then the Looks

Stem cells have now been shown to deteriorate with age, which can go a long way in explaining all of the wrinkles that we try so hard to cover up.  When stem cells go, there is little in the way of replenishment for the body’s old and damaged cells.  Scientists believe that the genes responsible for stress and aging get increasingly active with age.  Instead of worrying about it, or spending thousands to hide it, the best thing may just be to accept what aging does to our skin and move on.