Answer to Question 1
The discussion of age-related changes to the body systems may include the following answers:
Cardiovascular system
Maximal heart rate decreases
Maximal cardiac output decreases
Buildup of fatty plaque in blood vessels, resulting in atherosclerosis
Musculoskeletal system
Bone strength declines with decrease in bone mineral density (osteoporosis).
Bone mass declines after age 20
Loss of bone mass accelerates in women after menopause from decline in estrogen
Loss of connective tissue between joints
Muscle mass declines after age 20
Loss of muscle mass results in reduced mobility and independence, increases risk of falls
Integumentary system (skin, hair, nails)
Oil production declines, skin and hair become dry
Changes in connective tissue lead to wrinkles
Skin pigmentation changes, spots appear
Hair begins to thin after age 20
Follicles produce less pigment, hair fades to gray
Special senses (vision, hearing, taste, smell)
Loss of ability to focus on close objects (presbyopia)
Night vision becomes impaired
Loss of depth perception
Cellular changes in tongue and nose diminish taste and smell, changes that can contribute to
appetite loss
Nervous system
Loss of brain cells (neurons)
Decrease in neurotransmitters
Gradual loss of memory.
Answer to Question 2
A