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First day on the job as a geriatric nurse.

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A doctor in training learns life lessons about how to care for older patients.

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U.S.: A Personal Lesson in Geriatric Care  - nytimes.com

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Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center

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Room 4117 (A Look at Humanity in Geriatric Care)

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Great resources with many links for geriatric studies

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MedlinePlus links to health information from the National Institutes of Health and other federal government agencies. MedlinePlus also links to health information from non-government Web sites. See our disclaimer about external links and our quality guidelines.

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Older adult health deals with changes as we age. Having a healthy lifestyle helps you deal with changes in your body and mind to make the most of life.

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A Complex Challenge

Our ever-increasing lifespan presents new opportunities for our communities, but we run the risk of losing out on this momentum if we don't think about the kind of health care we need as we age. That's the expertise at the core of geriatrics, the healthcare specialty dedicated to new and smarter ways to approach care for older adults.

Geriatrics healthcare professionals are doctors, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, social workers, and many others expertly trained in caring for older men and women. Geriatrics healthcare professionals understand the unique health circumstances and preferences that come with aging. They also have expert training in collaborating with one another-a critical asset, since more than half of older Americans are managing two or more chronic conditions, and many older adults are making decisions with partners, family members, or other significant people involved in their care.

A Growing Field

The opportunities available to future geriatrics experts have never been greater-just consider career prospects for geriatricians (physicians with expert training in older adult care) as a case in point. We need about 20,000 geriatricians to staff up for the needs we have right now, for example, yet there are less than 7,300 certified geriatricians practicing nationwide. Knowing that we'll need even more geriatricians-as many as 30,000 by 2030-we need creative and forward-thinking colleagues and approaches to expand the workforce. And we're making progress-not just for physicians but for nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, social workers, and many others, too.

Some states are already offering loan forgiveness incentives for future geriatrics healthcare professionals, while other authorities are adopting core concepts in geriatrics-such as reducing hospital readmission rates and managing multiple conditions-as key measures of quality in health care.

When we see opportunities, we figure out how to seize them, and that's exactly what geriatrics represents for the future of our health and care. The demand for the field's expertise is growing, and this space is vibrant, rewarding, and full of opportunities.

Want to hear from geriatrics experts themselves about why they chose this field? Click here to browse Profiles in Geriatrics, and view the pathways that these careers can take here.

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Our ever-increasing lifespan presents new opportunities for our communities, but we run the risk of losing out on this momentum if we don't think about the kind of health care we need as we age. That's the expertise at the core of geriatrics, the healthcare specialty dedicated to new and smarter ways to approach care for older adults.

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Learn where geriatric nurses work and the importance of their work.

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Nurse Types / Geriatric Nurse

As the U.S. population becomes grayer, there is an increased need for healthcare professionals specializing in gerontology. Geriatric nurses devote their time to caring for the 16.5% of U.S. residents aged 65 and older. Older adults have special needs and require a gentle touch when navigating through the healthcare system. With people living longer thanks to advancements in medical care, the demand for skilled geriatrics nurses will continue to grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth of 7% for this field between now and 2029.

In this article we will explore:

What are the duties of geriatric nurses?

Geriatric nurses do more than deliver healthcare services to older patients. They assist with administering medications, educating patients and caregivers, and guiding daily activities. Their patients can have a range of health conditions, including Alzheimer's, cancer, or congestive heart failure.

Job responsibilities for geriatric nurses vary depending on their employer. Their primary role is to provide bedside care for elderly patients and to educate their caregivers and families about specific care needs. Some of the other tasks geriatric nurses perform are as follows:

Administering medications

Changing surgical or wound dressings

Collecting blood work and laboratory tests when ordered

Exercising and massaging patients

Helping patients with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom

Measuring and recording vital signs

Monitoring for signs of elder abuse

Transporting patients to doctor visits and other appointments

Triaging/stabilizing patients who require emergency medical attention

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Geriatric nurses must closely coordinate with their patient's medical care team, including primary care physicians. Acting as a liaison for their patients is an important part of the job.

Where can geriatric nurses work?

Geriatric nurses can work in clinics, hospitals, and residential care facilities for senior citizens. Nursing homes and retirement communities also employ nurses who specialize in this field. Other options include working as a traveling nurse who provides in-home care services to elderly clients.

As a gerontology-focused nursing professional, you are not limited to only these settings. There are other creative ways to use your education, training, and passion for helping older patients. You can explore career options in academia, with health insurance companies or medical supply companies that cater to senior citizens. Memory care centers are also an option for employment. Any healthcare organization or provider that works with the elderly may need your services.

NURSE TIP
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How do you become a geriatric nurse?

There are three main steps to becoming a geriatric nurse:

Step 1.

Attend an accredited nursing school to earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN will take between 18 and 24 months to complete, while you can expect to spend roughly four years in school for a BSN. Most nursing programs include classes and modules focused on geriatric nursing. If you already have an ADN, there is an ADN to BSN bridge program that allows you to earn a BSN in 12-18 months. The more education you have, the better your chances of landing your dream job.

Step 2.

Sit for the NCLEX-RN exam so you can become a Registered Nurse (RN). The NCLEX provides questions on the following topics to test nursing candidate knowledge:

Safe and effective care environments

Health promotion and maintenance

Psychosocial integrity

Physiological integrity

Nursing candidates can expect between 74 and 145 questions for the NCLEX-RN exam. You have up to six hours to complete the test, which includes scheduled breaks.

Step 3.
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The final step in the process is to gain bedside experience. As a geriatric nurse, you should seek out job opportunities that provide critical care experience, especially for older patients. It will give you hands-on practice in skills like artificial ventilation and treatment options through the course of a disease cycle.

What are the certification options for geriatric nurses?

Certification is not required to work as a geriatric nurse, but it might give you an advantage over other candidates in your field. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the Gerontological Nursing Certification (RN-BC) for eligible candidates. To be considered for this certification, nurses must:

Hold an active RN license

Have 2 years of experience working as an RN

Have a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in gerontology in the most recent 3 years

Have completed 30 hours of continuing education in gerontological nursing.

The initial certification lasts for five years. Credentialed nurses can renew their certification by taking another exam that measures their skills and knowledge of geriatric nursing.
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[ MORE: Earn your CEUs online, 100% free with Incredible Health. ]

What is the average gerontology nurse's salary?
[ Looking for more information? Get instant salary estimates and personalized matches with high-paying nursing jobs. ]
Based on data collected from the most recent job postings for geriatric nurses, the national average salary is $72,535 per year. Cities and states that pay above the national average for gerontology nurses include:

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What is a Geriatric Nurse? | Incredible Health

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As the U.S. population becomes grayer, there is an increased need for healthcare professionals specializing in gerontology.

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Learn the advantages of working with geriatric patients:

Helping someone improve their quality of care.

Gain pharmaceutical knowledge and treatment skills.

Build long-term relationships with geriatric patients and their families.

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Geriatric Nurse Career in Brief

Geriatric nurses work with doctors and other healthcare professionals to care for the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of elderly patients, helping them maintain independence and quality of life. These registered nurses (RNs) possess specialized knowledge and skills to treat common health issues affecting the elderly population. Some key responsibilities include the following:

Where Do Geriatric Nurses Work?

RNs specializing in geriatric care typically find employment at hospitals and medical clinics. In addition, work settings such as nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare also rely on the services of geriatric nurses.

Hospitals

Geriatric nurses implement treatment plans, administer medications, and educate patients and families about care options.

Nursing Homes

Nursing home RNs provide full-time healthcare, assist with personal needs and rehabilitation, and monitor patients for bedsores, infections, or other conditions.

Home Healthcare

Home healthcare geriatric nurses help patients recover from surgery and care for those with chronic conditions such as dementia or paralysis. They may also assist with personal hygiene and nutritional needs while working with families to maintain the best level of care.

Why Become a Geriatric Nurse?

Although geriatric nurses often work in physically demanding and stressful settings, this career offers personal and professional fulfillment by providing crucial healthcare services and improving the quality of life for the aging population.

How to Become a Geriatric Nurse

Geriatric Nurse vs. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

While geriatric nurses may enter the field with an RN license, adult-gerontology nurse practitioners (NPs), as advanced practice registered nurses, must hold a master's and specialized certification.

How Much Do Geriatric Nurses Make?

The population over the age of 65 will grow to over 82 million by 2030. This demographic surge will positively impact the demand for geriatric nurses, as the expanding elderly population seeks an array of primary and preventive healthcare services.

Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not differentiate between RN specialties, RNs can expect a 7% overall job growth between 2019 and 2029, with more opportunities available to those with certifications. Based on salary information provided by PayScale's employee reports, RNs with geriatrics skills earn an average income of $67,530, below the overall median salary of $75,330 for all RNs as reported by the BLS. Certifications can significantly boost geriatric nurse salary levels and job prospects.

Questions About a Career as a Geriatric Nurse

What does a geriatric nurse do?

Geriatric nurses provide healthcare services to the elderly, helping them maintain their quality of life. Although responsibilities vary by employment setting, these RNs may assess vital signs, administer medications, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to implement treatment plans. They may assist with basic functions and personal hygiene and offer patients information and resources about their conditions.

How long does it take to become a geriatric nurse?

A geriatric nurse can enter the field after earning a two-year associate degree or a four-year BSN followed by receiving an RN license. Employment opportunities increase by earning gerontological nursing certification which requires two years of RN experience with 2,000 hours of practice in gerontological nursing.

What qualifications do you need to be a geriatric nurse?

Geriatric nursing requires a valid RN license and undergraduate coursework that provides the essential knowledge and skills necessary to engage in evidence-based practice. In addition to gaining experience in clinical placements, nursing students receive training in acute and chronic disease management, advanced pharmacology and pathophysiology, palliative care, and healthcare promotion.

What kind of nurse takes care of the elderly?

Licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) and certified nursing assistants often work with older patients in nursing homes and home care settings. However, hospitals and other facilities serving elderly populations prefer to hire RNs who hold BSN degrees, and, in some cases, voluntary gerontological nursing certification. MSN-trained advanced practice nurses may obtain national certification as adult-gerontology acute care NPs and adult-gerontology primary care NPs.

Resources for Geriatric Nurses

Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association
Established in 1981, GAPNA provides professional development and continuing education opportunities designed for advanced practice nurses who care for elderly patients. Members receive quarterly newsletters and access to online resources. The association offers a new specialty certification available only for APRNs. The Gerontological Specialist-Certified (GS-C) credential requires a minimum of 2,500 hours of experience working with older adults.

American Geriatrics Society
AGS champions health, independence, and quality of life for the elderly by offering programming, publications, and resources for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public. HealthinAging.org, the AGS public education portal, provides older adults, family members, and caregivers with timely information on health and the aging process with access to a network of geriatrics healthcare professionals.

Eldercare Workforce Alliance
EWA represents 35 national organizations that have joined forces to prepare the healthcare system to care for older Americans and their families. Policy priorities include strengthening the direct care and immigrant eldercare workforce, ensuring healthcare access through Medicaid and Medicare, and the expansion of mental health resources. The alliance offers state-issued briefs, caretaker resources, and an advocacy toolkit.

American Assisted Living Nurses Association
Created by assisted living nurses, AALNA is the only national nonprofit association representing RNs and LPNs/LVNs employed in assisted living settings. Membership benefits include discounted registration for the AALNA national conference and reduced rates for long-term care insurance and professional liability insurance. AALNA administers the Assisted Living Certification Exam, available to both RNs and LPNs/LVNs.

Reviewed by:

Nicole Galan, RN, MSN

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Geriatric Nurse Career Overview | Nursejournal.org

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Geriatric nurses specialize in the care of aging patients. Check out this guide to learn more about educational requirements and salary prospects for this in-demand nurse specialty.

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Credential Awarded: GERO-BC™

The ANCC Gerontological Nursing board certification examination is a competency based examination that provides a valid and reliable assessment of the entry-level clinical knowledge and skills of registered nurses in the gerontological specialty after initial RN licensure. Once you complete eligibility requirements to take the certification examination and successfully pass the exam, you are awarded the credential: Gerontological Nurse - Board Certified (GERO-BC™).

This credential is valid for 5 years. You can continue to use this credential by maintaining your license to practice and meeting the renewal requirements in place at the time of your certification renewal. The Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification accredits this ANCC certification.

Apply online Renew online

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Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC™) | ANCC

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Learn about the Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC) from the ANCC, including application, requirements, examination, and renewal.

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More than 6 million Americans live with Alzheimer's disease.

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An estimated 6.9 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's in 2024. Seventy-three percent are age 75 or older.

About 1 in 9 people age 65 and older (10.9%) has Alzheimer's.

Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer's are women.

Older Black Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias as older Whites.

Older Hispanics are about one and one-half times as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias as older Whites.

As the size of the U.S. population age 65 and older continues to grow, so too will the number and proportion of Americans with Alzheimer's or other dementias. By 2050, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's may grow to a projected 12.7 million, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's is not just memory loss. Alzheimer's kills.

One in 3 older Americans dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia. It kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

Deaths from Alzheimer's have more than doubled between 2000 and 2021, while those from heart disease - the leading cause of death - have decreased.

At age 70, older Americans living with Alzheimer's are twice as likely to die before age 80 than those who do not have the disease.

People age 65 and older survive an average of four to eight years after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, yet some live as long as 20 years with Alzheimer's. This reflects the slow, uncertain progression of the disease.
Eighty-three percent of the help provided to older adults in the United States comes from family members, friends or other unpaid caregivers. Nearly half of all caregivers who provide help to older adults do so for someone living with Alzheimer's or another dementia.
Who are the caregivers?

About 30% of caregivers are age 65 or older.

Approximately two-thirds of caregivers are women; more specifically, over one-third of dementia caregivers are daughters.

Most caregivers (66%) live with the person with dementia in the community.

Approximately one-quarter of dementia caregivers are "sandwich generation" caregivers - meaning that they care not only for an aging parent but also for at least one child.

Alzheimer's takes a devastating toll on caregivers. Compared with caregivers of people without dementia, twice as many caregivers of those with dementia indicate substantial emotional, financial and physical difficulties.
As the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease increases, so does the need for more members of the paid workforce to be knowledgeable and skillful about working with a diverse population of people living with dementia, as well as with their families.
Of the total lifetime cost of caring for someone with dementia, 70% is borne by families - either through out-of-pocket health and long-term care expenses or from the value of unpaid care.
The costs of health care and long-term care for individuals living with Alzheimer's or other dementias are substantial, and dementia is one of the costliest conditions to society.

Fifty-five percent of primary care physicians (PCPs) caring for people living with Alzheimer's report there are not enough dementia care specialists in their communities.

Between 2021 and 2031, more than 1 million additional direct care workers will be needed to care for the growing population of people living with dementia - the largest worker gap of any single occupation in the U.S.

Half of PCPs reported that they do not feel adequately prepared to care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other dementias.

The U.S. will have to nearly triple the number of geriatricians to effectively care for the number of people projected to have Alzheimer's in 2050.

Turnover rates for direct care workers are high - estimated at 77% annually for those providing home care and 99% for nursing assistants in nursing homes.

In 2024, health and long-term care costs for people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias are projected to reach $360 billion - not including the value of unpaid caregiving. Medicare and Medicaid are expected to cover $231 billion (64%), while out-of-pocket spending is expected to be $91 billion. Total payments for health care, long-term care and hospice care for people living with dementia are projected to increase to nearly $1 trillion in 2050.

The total lifetime cost of care for a person living with dementia is estimated at almost $400,000. Seventy percent of these costs are borne by family caregivers in the forms of unpaid caregiving and out-of-pocket expenses.

People living with Alzheimer's or other dementias have twice as many hospital stays per year as other older people.

Medicare beneficiaries with Alzheimer's or other dementias are more likely than those without dementia to have other chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease.

Older people living with Alzheimer's or other dementias have more skilled nursing facility stays and home health care visits per year than other older people.

People living with Alzheimer's or other dementias make up a large proportion of all elderly people who receive adult day services and nursing home care.

Dementia care is a complex maze with interactions between primary care providers, specialists, social services, medication management and caregiver support. Navigating this maze is difficult and often frustrating for people living with Alzheimer's or other dementia and their caregivers. Without a clear path forward, any roadblock or detour along the way can have considerable consequences - whether they be missed opportunities for treatment, missed connections to resources and services, or missed chances for maintaining quality of life.
Overwhelmingly, caregivers would welcome dementia care navigator support and believe it would benefit both the person living with dementia and the caregiver.
Mapping a Better Future for Dementia Care Navigation (PDF) provides a comprehensive look at dementia care navigation, a holistic model of care that provides medical and social support for people living with dementia and their caregivers in order to alleviate stress, improve health outcomes and lower costs. Dementia care navigation emphasizes person-centered, evidence-based, culturally competent, empowered support throughout the dementia care journey. Support services include:

Caregiver education and training.

Care coordination, including scheduling appointments, coordinating diagnostic testing, and facilitation communication and referrals across specialities and organizations.

Connecting people living with dementia and caregivers to education and training, social services, and community support.

Management of chronic conditions, medication, symptoms and dementia-related behaviors.

Safety assessments.

Advance care planning.

Assistance with insurance and benefits.

The special report survey revealed three recommendations for health care systems to advance dementia care navigation efforts:

Seven in 10 dementia caregivers say that coordinating care is stressful.

More than 4 in 5 dementia caregivers (85%) say having access to a care navigator would influence their choice of dementia health care provider for the person they care for.

Three in 5 dementia caregivers (61%) believe that having a care navigator would improve quality of life for their care recipient, and 43% believe that a care navigator would improve the care recipient's overall health.

Three in 5 dementia caregivers say less stress (62%) and more peace of mind (62%) would be valuable outcomes of having a care navigator. More than half (56%) say having a care navigator could help them be better caregivers.

The special report national survey also found that 60% of health care workers believe that the U.S. health care system is not effectively helping patients and their families navigate dementia care.

1. Formalize the dementia care navigator role and increase navigator proficiency in dementia care.

2. Scale and expand access to dementia care navigation programs.

3. Create direct lines to dementia care navigators, such as a 24/7 helpline.

Health care delivery that includes dementia care navigation can improve the quality of life of those facing dementia and their caregivers, paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient and compassionate health care system. Learn more in Mapping a Better Future for Dementia Care Navigation (PDF) and view the special report infographic (PDF).

For more information about dementia care navigation, read the Dementia Care Navigation Guiding Principles, a national framework for dementia care navigation within or in collaboration with U.S. health systems, and consider participating in the Dementia Care Navigation Roundtable.

Read past special reports

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Read the 2024 report to understand the burden of Alzheimer's and dementia on individuals, caregivers, government and the nation's health care system.

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Discusses day to day job responsibilities.

Administrating medication.

How to life and move patients.

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Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Adults over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of developing various age-related illnesses. As a result, they often require medical assistance to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

Geriatric nurses specialize in providing preventive and corrective medical care to older adults. They work closely with patients, families and care providers to ensure aging patients receive the necessary support to manage age-related health issues.

If you're interested in pursuing a career in geriatric nursing, read on to discover how to become a geriatric nurse.

What Is Geriatric Nursing?

Geriatric nursing involves treating and caring for older patients. This field of nursing encompasses both acute and palliative care. In essence, geriatric nurses provide instant treatment for sudden ailments and long-term care for patients with chronic illnesses.

The terms "gerontology" and "geriatrics" have similar meanings and are frequently used interchangeably in nursing as both areas focus on improving the lives of older adults. Gerontology focuses on the study of aging, while geriatrics specifically addresses the medical aspects of illness and disease in aging individuals. Geriatric nurses are also called gerontological nurses.

Geriatric nurses collaborate closely with doctors, therapists and patients' families to support patients' physical and mental well-being. Their day-to-day responsibilities include:

Educating patients and their caregivers on common age-related health issues

Assessing patients' cognitive and motor skills

Monitoring patients' vital signs

Collecting blood samples for laboratory tests

Administering medications to patients

Assisting physicians during surgical procedures

Providing post-operative care

Lifting and moving patients with impaired physical mobility

Gerontological nurses work in hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, retirement communities, private offices and patients' homes. Working with this vulnerable population requires specialized soft skills such as reading non-verbal cues, effective communication, empathy and patience, plus a comprehensive understanding of geriatrics. Geriatric nurses should also possess physical stamina as they often need to assist with moving patients.

How to Become a Geriatric Nurse

Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree

To become a geriatric nurse, you must earn a college degree from an accredited nursing program. You can choose between an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). An ADN takes about two years to complete, while BSN programs take four years of full-time study to complete.

Most employers prefer to hire nurses with BSNs because the training they receive from these programs leads to better patient outcomes. BSN programs also equip students with leadership skills, meaning they are better prepared to oversee nursing teams and supervise student nurses during clinical rounds.

However, if you desire more career autonomy and want to increase your earning potential, consider adding a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree to your qualifications.

Obtain RN Licensure

A state-issued license qualifies you to practice legally as a registered nurse (RN). The first step in the licensure process is passing the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN).

The NGN exam is the updated version of the NCLEX exam that uses real-world case studies to evaluate nurses' clinical judgment. We recommend reviewing NCLEX test prep resources and following a strict study plan to improve your chances of passing the NGN.

In addition to the licensure exam, nursing graduates must fulfill other requirements set by the state where they intend to practice. Visit your state's board of nursing for current information.

Nurses who want to practice in various U.S. states can apply for a multistate license with the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). They must have an active RN license and live in an NLC-participating state to qualify.

Gain Nursing Experience

Securing a position in geriatric nursing directly out of nursing school is possible, especially if you have acute and critical care experience. However, gaining bedside experience in hospital settings is recommended. Working in critical care, pain management or emergency units can offer a preview of what a geriatric nursing career would involve.

Consider a Certification or Certificate

Although nursing certifications are not required to work in gerontology, they validate a nurse's expertise and experience in the field. Nurses seeking certification can earn the Gerontological Nurse - Board Certified (GERO-BC™) credential issued by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

To obtain this credential, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Hold an active RN license or legally recognized equivalent

Have at least two years of full-time nursing experience

Have at least 2,000 hours of gerontology clinical practice

Have completed 30 hours of geriatric nursing education in the last three years

Submit an application online

Pass the computer-based exam

RNs must renew the GERO-BC™ certification every five years after meeting the ANCC's renewal requirements.

Salary and Job Outlook for Geriatric Nurses

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't report specific data on geriatric nurses; however, the BLS reports a median annual salary of $81,220 for all registered nurses as of May 2022.

The BLS projects a 6% increase in employment for RNs from 2021 to 2031 and around 203,200 job openings each year during that decade. The job outlook for registered nurses is comparable to the projected average for all occupations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Geriatric Nurses

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How To Become A Geriatric Nurse: Everything You Should Know

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Adults over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of developing various age-related illnesses. As a result, they often require medical assistance to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Geriatric nurses specialize in providing preventive and corrective medical care to older adults. They work closely wi

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State of Aging and Health in America (SAHA) | Healthy Aging Data | Alzheimer's Disease and Healthy Aging | CDC

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This report series provides the most current data on 15 key indicators of older adult health at the national and state levels.

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Article discusses the top syndromes of geriatric patients which include:

Sleep problems

Bladder Control Issues

Dementia

Delirium

Falls

Osteoporosis

Weight Loss

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Americans are continuing to live longer and healthier lives. As we age, we become more likely to develop different kinds of health problems. These are called geriatric syndromes, which are problems that usually have more than one cause and involve many parts of the body. Doctors called geriatricians-who have advanced training in the care of older adults-and other geriatrics healthcare professionals can play an important role in diagnosing and managing these syndromes.

There are many treatments available for these conditions that can help you maintain your independence and quality of life.

Geriatric Syndromes: What Should You Do?

Bladder Control Problems

Lack of bladder control, or "urinary incontinence," is an embarrassing topic. Please know that you are not alone! Urinary incontinence can lead to problems such as falls, depression, and isolation. In most cases, incontinence can be cured or greatly improved with treatment. So don't hesitate to tell your healthcare provider if you have bladder control problems.

Sleep Problems

Sleep problems can affect your quality of life and can contribute to falls, injuries, and other health problems. If you have trouble sleeping at night or feel sleepy during the day, tell your healthcare provider so they can identify the type of sleep problem you have.

Many older adults who go to the emergency room or are admitted to the hospital develop delirium. Delirium is a state of sudden confusion. Delirium is a medical emergency, similar to chest pain. Make sure that you and your friends and family know the signs of delirium and seek medical attention right away at the first sign of any sudden changes in mental function.

Dementia, most simply, is a memory problem significant enough to affect your ability to carry out your usual tasks. While the most common cause is Alzheimer's Disease, there are many other types. Various tests can help determine whether you or someone you care for might have dementia and what type it might be. If so, there are treatments that can improve function and slow down the disease.

Falls are a leading cause of serious injury in older people. There are many risk factors for falling, including safety hazards in the home, medication side effects, walking and vision problems, dizziness, arthritis, weakness, and malnutrition. Like other geriatric syndromes, falls usually have more than one cause.

Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you have fallen. They will look into what caused your fall and suggest steps to prevent future falls. There are many treatments, such as exercise and physical therapy, that can help improve your gait and walking and prevent falls.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, or "thinning bones," is a condition that makes the bones of older adults more fragile and easy to break. Women 65 and older, and men over age 70, should get a bone mass density (BMD) test. Increased calcium and vitamin D intake, strength training exercises, and weight-bearing exercises such as walking are important to keeping your bones healthy. Your healthcare provider may also recommend medications or other treatments.

Weight Loss

Weight loss is a very common problem in older adults. Weight loss can be caused by the diminished sense of taste that comes with aging, or it can be a suggestion of an underlying serious medical problem. No matter the cause, weight loss can lead to other problems, such as weakness, falls, and bone disorders.

Your healthcare provider should weigh you each time you visit and check for any changes. Also, be sure to let your healthcare provider know if you have any changes in your weight or appetite.

Last Updated August 2017

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Tip Sheet: A Guide to Geriatric Syndromes: Common and Often Related Medical Conditions in Older Adults

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Americans are living longer and healthier lives. As we age, we are more likely to develop health problems called geriatric syndromes. They usually have more than one cause and involve many parts of the body. Geriatrics healthcare professionals can play an important role in managing these syndromes.

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Staying awake and aware of the mind as it ages

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Maintaining Your Cognitive Health

Getting older can bring many changes, both physically and mentally. Even when you're healthy, your brain and body start slowing down. Maintaining your cognitive health-the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember-is important for your overall well-being.

Many things influence cognitive health. Your genes, lifestyle, and environment can all impact your thinking skills and ability to perform everyday tasks.

It's common to experience some decline in cognitive function as you get older. That may mean occasionally losing things, forgetting words, or briefly forgetting what day it is. Or you may notice that it takes longer to learn new things. Such symptoms don't necessarily mean that you're developing Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia.

"I like to think about the brain as a computer disk for memory and thinking," explains Dr. Marie Bernard, an aging expert at NIH. "As you get older it gets fuller and fuller. So, it can get more difficult to retrieve data and add data to it. But you're still able to learn and grow."

Aging is bound to bring changes. But there are many things you can do to protect your cognitive health as you age. That includes knowing what puts your well-being at risk.

Staying Aware

It's not only occasional memory problems that older adults are more likely to experience. Aging can bring other changes to the way the brain works. These changes can impact your ability to deal with complex social situations. That can put you at higher risk of being scammed.

"Older adults are often targeted by scam artists," says Dr. Patricia Boyle, who studies the aging brain at Rush University.

Older adults are also more likely than younger ones to pick up the phone without knowing who's calling, she explains. "Simply by doing that, you're opening yourself up to a conversation with someone who may be an unscrupulous person trying to steal from you."

Common scams targeting older adults include identity theft, risky or fake investments, charity scams, and people posing as relatives in distress to ask for money.

Any adult can fall victim to these sorts of scams. But Boyle and her team recently found that low awareness of tactics used by scam artists may be an early indicator of worsening brain function.

In their study, people with low scam awareness were about twice as likely to later develop Alzheimer's disease as those with high scam awareness.

People should verify any investment proposal or request for money before acting, Boyle explains. Trusted family members or friends may be able to help with this. "Take the time to look into financial propositions and make sure they are legitimate," she says.

Reversing Changes

Many things can cause memory or other thinking problems. Depression, anxiety, an infection, or even certain medications can cause cognitive changes. Sometimes these types of issues can be resolved with treatment.

If you experience a sudden change in thinking, memory, or mood, it may be caused by a new medication. Some drugs may not cause cognitive changes when taken on their own but can do so when combined with other medications. Even common supplements or over-the-counter remedies can cause these types of interactions.

Sometimes, if you have more than one doctor, one might not know what the others prescribed. "Older adults really benefit from having a list of all their over-the-counter, herbal, and prescribed medications with them whenever they see a health care professional," says Bernard.

Certain medications can also have dangerous, or even deadly, effects when combined with alcohol. And alcohol alone poses risks for the older brain. It can take less alcohol to alter judgment, coordination, balance, or sleep patterns in an older adult.

Dangerous drinking habits have been rising among older adults in the U.S. A recent NIH-funded study found that 1 in 10 Americans aged 65 or older binge drinks regularly. That means drinking four or more drinks on the same occasion for women and five or more for men.

Older adults may change their drinking habits to cope with the death of a partner or other loved one, or because they're lonely. But drinking can also be part of social activities for older adults, explains Dr. Edith Sullivan, an alcohol researcher at Stanford University.

"Older adults might feel that 'well, I'm old now, it's OK for me to drink," Sullivan says. But older brains and bodies are especially vulnerable to the effects of alcohol, she adds.

A recent study by Sullivan and her team used brain imaging to see how alcohol affects the brain. They found that older adults who misused alcohol had greater loss of brain tissue compared with their peers who didn't drink. This was true even if they started misusing alcohol later in life.

The good news, she explains, is that some problems with thinking or memory caused by medications or alcohol misuse can be reversed. "That's different from classical dementia, which is a one-way street of decline," says Sullivan.

Building Brain Power

There are many things you can do to protect your brain as you age. "Cognitive activity, physical activity, and social engagement are associated with better cognitive functioning in older adulthood," Boyle explains.

Managing your health conditions is also important. Controlling your blood pressure, for example, reduces the risk of having a small stroke (bleeding from blood vessels in the brain). Small strokes can cause temporary or permanent cognitive problems.

Feeling a sense of purpose in one's life also seems to help protect older adults from cognitive decline. A study from Boyle and her colleagues found that people who felt more purpose in life had fewer symptoms from brain changes linked to Alzheimer's disease.

"The aging brain can accumulate Alzheimer's changes, but if you're stimulating your brain and strengthening it like a muscle, you may be better able to tolerate those changes," she says.

Bernard stresses that getting older can also bring cognitive advantages you might not know about.

"Older adults have greater verbal ability than younger adults. They're better problem solvers. And accumulated experiences are very helpful," she says.

"Think about the positive things that come with aging," Bernard says. "It's a great time to become engaged in meaningful activities, maintain connections to friends and family, develop new connections, and be physically active. And in turn, all of these things can enhance one's quality of life and one's aging."

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Your brain and body start slowing down as you age. But taking steps to maintain your cognitive health can help improve your overall well-being.

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Aging and Health Issues

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Geriatric Nursing and What to Watch Out For

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Geriatric Nursing and What to Watch Out For

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Awareness:
Be aware that certain medications can contribute to easy brusing by decreasing the blood's ability to clot.

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Easy bruising: Why does it happen?

If you're experiencing easy bruising, you might have questions about what's causing it and what you can do about it. Find out what role aging plays and when to consult a health care provider.
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Yet another tender bruise. You don't recall bumping into anything, but lately you seem to be bruising frequently. Is this cause for concern?

Easy bruising is common with age. Most bruises are harmless and go away without treatment. However, easy bruising can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem.

Why is easy bruising so common in older adults?

Most bruises form when small blood vessels (capillaries) near the skin's surface are broken by the impact of a blow or injury - often on the arms or legs. When this happens, blood leaks out of the vessels and initially appears as a dark mark. Eventually the body reabsorbs the blood, and the mark disappears.

Generally, harder blows cause larger bruises. However, if you bruise easily, even a minor bump can result in a substantial bruise.

Some people - especially women - are more prone to bruising than others. As people get older, the skin becomes thinner and loses some of the protective fatty layer that helps cushion blood vessels from injury.

Can medications and supplements contribute to easy bruising?

Certain medications may contribute to easy bruising by decreasing the blood's ability to clot. These include aspirin; ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others); naproxen sodium (Aleve); anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin (Jantoven), dabigatran (Pradaxa), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), apixaban (Eliquis) and heparin; and anti-platelet agents, such as clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient) and ticagrelor (Brilinta). Some antibiotics and antidepressants also might be associated with clotting problems. As a result, bleeding from damage to small blood vessels near the skin's surface might take longer than usual to stop. This allows enough blood to leak out under the skin to cause a bruise.

Topical and systemic corticosteroids can be used to treat various conditions, including allergies, asthma and eczema. Corticosteroids thin the skin, making it easier to bruise. Certain dietary supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, also can increase bruising risk due to a blood-thinning effect.

If you experience increased bruising, don't stop taking your medications. Talk to your health care provider about your concerns. Also, tell your provider about any supplements you're taking - especially if you're taking them while on a blood-thinning drug. Your provider might tell you to avoid certain nonprescription medications or supplements.

When is easy bruising a sign of a more serious problem?

Easy bruising sometimes indicates a serious underlying condition, such as a blood-clotting problem or a blood disease. See your health care provider if you:

Have frequent, large bruises, especially if your bruises appear on your trunk, back or face or seem to develop for no known reasons

Have easy bruising and a history of excessive or prolonged bleeding, such as after a minor cut or during a surgical procedure

Suddenly begin bruising, especially if you recently started a new medication

Have a family history of easy bruising or bleeding

These symptoms may indicate:

Low levels of the blood components that help blood clot after injury (platelets)

A problem with how platelets function

Problems with proteins that help the blood clot

Another serious cause of bruising is domestic violence or abuse. If a loved one has a bruise that can't be explained, particularly in an unusual location such as on the face, be aware of the possibility of abuse.

To find the cause of your bruising, your health care provider will likely do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider might also check your blood platelet levels or do tests that measure the time it takes your blood to clot.

How can I prevent or treat bruises?

To prevent minor bruising, take steps to avoiding falls and injuries:

Use good lighting in your home.

Avoid clutter and throw rugs, especially on stairs.

Arrange furniture and electrical cords so that they're not in your way when you walk.

Find out about the side effects of medications you take. Tell your health care provider or pharmacist if a medication makes you dizzy or sleepy.

Have your vision and hearing tested. Even small changes in sight or hearing can cause you to fall.

Unfortunately, once a bruise has formed, not much can be done to treat it. Most bruises eventually disappear as the body reabsorbs the blood, although healing might take longer as you age. It might help to elevate the affected area and apply ice.

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Show references

1. Kraut EH. Easy bruising. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 14, 2022.

2. Skin care and aging. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care-and-aging. Accessed March 14, 2022.

3. Muscle contusion (bruise). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/muscle-contusion-bruise. Accessed March 14, 2022.

4. Hoffman R, et al. Clinical approach to the patient with bleeding or bruising. In: Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 14, 2022.

5. Senile purpura. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/bleeding-due-to-abnormal-blood-vessels/senile-purpura. Accessed March 14, 2022.

6. Goldman L, et al., eds. Approach to the patient with bleeding and thrombosis. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 14, 2022.

7. Fall-proofing your home. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fall-proofing-your-home. Accessed March 14, 2022.

8. Gurnee EA, et al. Confronting abusive injuries in dermatology: Ethical and legal considerations. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2017; 10.1016/j.jaad.2016.11.009.

See more In-depth

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Get the facts about easy bruising. Learn about causes and find out when it's a sign of a problem.

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Understand that as people age, their organs, bones and joint, muscles and fat, eyes and ears, mouth and nose, skin, brain and nervous system, heart and blood vessels, lungs, digestive system, kidneys and urinary tract, reproductive organs, endocrine blood production and immune system-all experience changes as the body gets older.

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As cells age, they function less well. Eventually, old cells must die, which is a normal part of the body's functioning.

Old cells sometimes die because they are programmed to do so. The genes of cells program a process that, when triggered, results in death of the cell. This programmed death, called apoptosis, is a kind of cell suicide. The aging of a cell is one trigger. Old cells must die to make room for new cells. Other triggers include an excess number of cells and possibly damage to a cell.

Old cells also die because they can divide only a limited number of times. This limit is programmed by genes. When a cell can no longer divide, it grows larger, exists for a while, then dies. The mechanism that limits cell division involves a structure called a telomere. Telomeres are used to move the cell's genetic material in preparation for cell division. Every time a cell divides, the telomeres shorten a bit. Eventually, the telomeres become so short that the cell can no longer divide. When a cell stops dividing, it is called senescence.

Sometimes damage to a cell directly causes its death. Cells may be damaged by harmful substances, such as radiation, sunlight, and chemotherapy drugs. Cells may also be damaged by certain by-products of their own normal activities. These by-products, called free radicals, are given off when cells produce energy.

How well organs function depends on how well the cells within them function. Older cells function less well. Also, in some organs, cells die and are not replaced, so the number of cells decreases. The number of cells in the testes, ovaries, liver, and kidneys decreases markedly as the body ages. When the number of cells becomes too low, an organ cannot function normally. Thus, most organs function less well as people age. However, not all organs lose a large number of cells. The brain is one example. Healthy older people do not lose many brain cells. Substantial losses occur mainly in people who have had a stroke or who have a disorder that causes the progressive loss of nerve cells (neurodegenerative disorders), such as Alzheimer disease or Parkinson disease.

Often, the first signs of aging involve the musculoskeletal system. The eyes, followed by the ears, begin to change early in mid-life. Most internal functions also decline with aging. Most bodily functions peak shortly before age 30 and then begin a gradual but continuous decline. However, even with this decline, most functions remain adequate because most organs start with considerably more functional capacity than the body needs (functional reserve). For example, if half the liver is destroyed, the remaining tissue is more than enough to maintain normal function. Thus, disorders, rather than normal aging, usually account for most of the loss of function in old age.

Even though most functions remain adequate, the decline in function means that older people are less able to handle various stresses, including strenuous physical activity, extreme temperature changes in the environment, and disorders. This decline also means that older people are more likely to experience side effects from drugs. Some organs are more likely to malfunction under stress than others. These organs include the heart and blood vessels, the urinary organs (such as the kidneys), and the brain.

Bones become less dense partly because they contain less calcium (which gives bones strength). The amount of calcium decreases because the body absorbs less calcium from foods. Also, levels of vitamin D, which helps the body use calcium, decrease slightly. Certain bones are weakened more than others. Those most affected include the end of the thighbone (femur) at the hip, the ends of the arm bones (radius and ulna) at the wrist, and the bones of the spine (vertebrae).

Changes in vertebrae at the top of the spine cause the head to tip forward, compressing the throat. As a result, swallowing is more difficult, and choking is more likely. The vertebrae become less dense and the cushions of tissue (disks) between them lose fluid and become thinner, making the spine shorter. Thus, older people become shorter.

Ligaments, which bind joints together, and tendons, which bind muscle to bone, tend to become less elastic, making joints feel tight or stiff. These tissues also weaken. Thus, most people become less flexible. Ligaments and tendons tend to tear more easily, and when they tear, they heal more slowly. These changes occur because the cells that maintain ligaments and tendons become less active.

The amount of muscle tissue (muscle mass) and muscle strength tend to decrease beginning around age 30 and continuing throughout life. Some of the decrease is caused by physical inactivity and decreasing levels of growth hormone and testosterone, which stimulate muscle development. Also, muscles cannot contract as quickly because more fast-contracting (fast-twitch) muscle fibers are lost than slow-contracting (slow-twitch) muscle fibers. However, aging's effects reduce muscle mass and strength by no more than about 10 to 15% during an adult's lifetime. In the absence of disease, most of the loss beyond that 10 to 15% is preventable with regular exercise. More severe muscle loss (called sarcopenia, which literally means loss of flesh) results from disease or extreme inactivity, not from aging alone.

Most older people retain enough muscle mass and strength for all necessary tasks. Many older people remain strong athletes. They compete in sports and enjoy vigorous physical activity. However, even the fittest notice some decline as they age.

As people age, the following occur:

A change in vision is often the first undeniable sign of aging.

Changes in the lenses of the eye can cause or contribute to the following:

Loss of near vision: During their 40s, most people notice that seeing objects closer than 2 feet becomes difficult. This change in vision, called presbyopia Causes , occurs because the lens in the eye stiffens. Normally, the lens changes its shape to help the eye focus. A stiffer lens makes focusing on close objects harder. Ultimately, almost everyone gets presbyopia and needs magnifying reading glasses. People who need glasses to see distant objects may need to wear bifocals or glasses with variable-focus lenses.

Need for brighter light: As people continue to age, seeing in dim light becomes more difficult because the lens tends to become less transparent. A denser lens means that less light passes through to the retina at the back of the eye. Also, the retina, which contains the cells that sense light, becomes less sensitive. So for reading, brighter light is needed. On average, 60-year-olds need 3 times more light to read than 20-year-olds.

Changes in color perception: Colors are perceived differently, partly because the lens tends to yellow with aging. Colors may look less bright and contrasts between different colors may be more difficult to see. Blues may look more gray, and blue print or background may look washed out. These changes are insignificant for most people. However, older people may have trouble reading black letters printed on a blue background or reading blue letters.

The pupil of the eye reacts more slowly to changes in light. The pupil widens and narrows to let more or less light in, depending on the brightness of the surroundings. A slow-reacting pupil means that older people may be unable to see when they first enter a dark room. Or they may be temporarily blinded when they enter a brightly lit area. Older people may also become more sensitive to glare. However, increased sensitivity to glare is often due to darkened areas in the lens or to cataracts.

Fine details, including differences in shades and tones, become more difficult to discern. The reason is probably a decrease in the number of nerve cells that transmit visual signals from the eyes to the brain. This change affects the way depth is perceived, and judging distances becomes more difficult.

The appearance of the eyes changes in several ways:

It is important to see a doctor to determine whether hearing loss is due to cerumen (ear wax) impaction because this is easily treated.

As people age, hearing high-pitched sounds becomes more difficult. This change is considered age-associated hearing loss (presbycusis). For example, violin music may sound less bright.

The most frustrating consequence of presbycusis is that words become harder to understand. As a result, older people may think that other people are mumbling. Even when other people speak more loudly, older people still have difficulty understanding the words. The reason is that most consonants (such as k, t, s, p, and ch) are high-pitched, and consonants are the sounds that help people identify words. Because vowels are lower-pitched sounds, they are easier to hear. So older people may hear "Ell me exaly wha you wan oo ee," rather than "Tell me exactly what you want to keep." To help, other people need to articulate consonants more clearly, rather than simply speak louder. Understanding what women and children say may be more difficult than understanding what men say because most women and children have higher-pitched voices. Gradually, hearing lower pitches also becomes more difficult.

Many older people have more trouble hearing in loud places or in groups because of the background noise.

Thick hairs may grow out of the ears.

Generally, when people are in their 50s, the ability to taste and smell starts to gradually diminish. Both senses are needed to enjoy the full range of flavors in food. The tongue can identify only five basic tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salt, and a taste called umami (commonly described as meaty or savory). The sense of smell is needed to distinguish more subtle and complex flavors (such as raspberry).

As people age, taste buds on the tongue decrease in sensitivity. This change affects tasting sweet and salt more than bitter and sour. The ability to smell diminishes because the lining of the nose becomes thinner and drier and the nerve endings in the nose deteriorate. However, the change is slight, usually affecting only subtle smells. Because of these changes, many foods tend to taste bitter, and foods with subtle smells may taste bland.

With aging, the nose tends to lengthen and enlarge, and the tip tends to droop.

Thick hairs may grow in the nose and on the upper lip and chin.

The skin tends to become thinner, less elastic, drier, and finely wrinkled. However, exposure to sunlight over the years greatly contributes to wrinkling and to making the skin rough and blotchy. People who have avoided exposure to sunlight often look much younger than their age.

The skin changes partly because collagen (a tough, fibrous tissue that makes skin strong) and elastin (which makes skin flexible) become chemically changed and less flexible; also, the aging body produces less collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin tears more easily.

The fat layer under the skin thins. This layer acts as a cushion for the skin, helping protect and support it. The fat layer also helps conserve body heat. When the layer thins, wrinkles are more likely to develop, and tolerance for cold decreases.

The number of nerve endings in the skin decreases. As a result, people become less sensitive to pain, temperature, and pressure, and injuries may be more likely.

The number of sweat glands and blood vessels decreases, and blood flow in the deep layers of the skin decreases. As a result, the body is less able to move heat from inside the body through blood vessels to the surface of the body. Less heat leaves the body, and the body cannot cool itself as well. Thus, the risk of heat-related disorders, such as heatstroke, is increased. Also, when blood flow is decreased, the skin tends to heal more slowly.

The number of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) decreases. As a result, the skin has less protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as that from sunlight. Large, brown spots (age spots) develop on skin that has been exposed to sunlight, perhaps because the skin is less able to remove waste products.

The skin is less able to form vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. Thus, the risk of vitamin D deficiency increases.

The number of nerve cells in the brain typically decreases. However, the brain can partly compensate for this loss in several ways:

Levels of the chemical substances involved in sending messages in the brain tend to decrease, but some increase. Nerve cells may lose some of their receptors for these chemical messages. Blood flow to the brain decreases. Because of these age-related changes, the brain may function slightly less well. Older people may react and do tasks somewhat more slowly, but given time, they do these things accurately. Some mental functions-such as vocabulary, short-term memory, the ability to learn new material, and the ability to recall words-may be subtly reduced after age 70.

After about age 60, the number of cells in the spinal cord begins to decrease. Usually, this change does not affect strength or sensation.

As people age, nerves may conduct signals more slowly. Usually, this change is so minimal that people do not notice it. Also, nerves may repair themselves more slowly and incompletely. Therefore, in older people with damaged nerves, sensation and strength may be decreased.

The heart and blood vessels become stiffer. The heart fills with blood more slowly. The stiffer arteries are less able to expand when more blood is pumped through them. Thus, blood pressure tends to increase.

Despite these changes, a normal older heart functions well. Differences between young and old hearts become apparent only when the heart has to work hard and pump more blood-for example, during exercise or an illness. An older heart cannot speed up as quickly or pump as fast or as much blood as a younger heart. Thus, older athletes are not able to perform as well as younger athletes. However, regular aerobic exercise can improve athletic performance in older people.

The muscles used in breathing, the diaphragm and muscles between the ribs, tend to weaken. The number of air sacs (alveoli) and capillaries in the lungs decreases. Thus, slightly less oxygen is absorbed from air that is breathed in. The lungs become less elastic. In people who do not smoke or have a lung disorder, these changes do not affect ordinary daily activities, but these changes may make exercising more difficult. Breathing at high altitudes (where there is less oxygen) may also be harder.

The lungs become less able to fight infection, partly because the cells that sweep debris containing microorganisms out of the airways are less able to do so. Cough, which also helps clear the lungs, tends to be weaker.

Overall, the digestive system is less affected by aging than most other parts of the body. The muscles of the esophagus contract less forcefully, but movement of food through the esophagus is not affected. Food is emptied from the stomach slightly more slowly, and the stomach cannot hold as much food because it is less elastic. But in most people, these changes are too slight to be noticed.

Certain changes cause problems in some people. The digestive tract may produce less lactase, an enzyme the body needs to digest milk. As a result, older people are more likely to develop intolerance of dairy products ( lactose intolerance). People with lactose intolerance may feel bloated or have gas or diarrhea after they consume milk products.

The liver tends to become smaller because the number of cells decreases. Less blood flows through it, and liver enzymes that help the body process drugs and other substances work less efficiently. As a result, the liver may be slightly less able to help remove drugs and other substances from the body. And the effects of drugs-intended and unintended-last longer.

The kidneys tend to become smaller because the number of cells decreases. Less blood flows through the kidneys, and at about age 30, they begin to filter blood less well. As years pass, they may remove waste products from the blood less well. They may excrete too much water and too little salt, making dehydration more likely. Nonetheless, they almost always function well enough to meet the body's needs.

Certain changes in the urinary tract may make controlling urination more difficult:

In women, the urethra (the tube through which urine leaves the body) shortens, and its lining becomes thinner. The decrease in the estrogen level that occurs with menopause may contribute to this and other changes in the urinary tract.

The effects of aging on sex hormone levels are more obvious in women than in men. In women, most of these effects are related to menopause Menopause Menopause is the permanent end of menstrual periods, ovulation, and fertility. For up to several years before and just after menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate widely, periods become irregular... read more , when the levels of female hormones (particularly estrogen) decrease dramatically, menstrual periods end permanently, and pregnancy is no longer possible. The decrease in female hormone levels causes the ovaries and uterus to shrink. The tissues of the vagina become thinner, drier, and less elastic (a condition called atrophic vaginitis). In severe cases, these changes can lead to itching, bleeding, pain during intercourse, and a need to urinate immediately ( urinary urgency).

The levels and activity of some hormones, produced by endocrine glands, decrease.

Insulin, which helps control the sugar (glucose) level in blood, is less effective, and less insulin may be produced. Insulin enables sugar to move from the blood into cells, where it can be converted to energy. The changes in insulin mean that the sugar level increases more after a large meal and takes longer to return to normal.

For most people, the changes in the endocrine system have no noticeable effect on overall health. But in some, the changes may increase the risk of health problems. For example, the changes in insulin increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Thus, exercise and diet, which can enhance insulin's action, become more important as people age.

As the immune system slows down, autoimmune disorders become less common.

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Changes in the Body With Aging - Older People's Health Issues - Merck Manuals Consumer Version

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Changes in the Body With Aging - Explore from the Merck Manuals - Medical Consumer Version.

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Discusses what vaccinations are necessary for older adults.