Physical Development in Late Adulthood
One important thing to note is that there is a wide variation of individual differences in physical development. The effects of specific genes and cellular events make physical declines more noticeable because more organs and bodily systems are affected.
Nervous system changes include loss of neurons throughout the cerebral cortex, with the motor, visual, and auditory areas most affected. Changes in senses include decline in taste and odor sensitivity, impaired eyesight, and hearing difficulties, which are most common. Immune system function declines in late life making autoimmune responses more likely.
A heightened risk of dietary deficiencies make vitamin-mineral supplements more beneficial in later life. Exercise is a powerful health intervention, even if started in late adulthood.
Mental disabilities include dementia, most notably Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as some depression, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness associated with the diseases.
Outward signs of
aging, including white or graying hair, age spots, and wrinkled skin become more
noticeable.