Skin also changes—wrinkles, age spots, and loose skin. Bone density declines,
women are more affected. Height may drop as much as one inch.Physical Development in Middle Adulthood
The declines in system and organ functioning that began in
early adulthood continue.
Vision is affected, and cataracts and glaucoma may develop.
Skin also changes—wrinkles, age spots, and loose skin. Bone density declines,
women are more affected. Height may drop as much as one inch.
Sexual and Hormonal Effects:
Estrogen
production drops in women over a 10-year period called the climacteric. The
result is menopause. Menopause is the time at "mid-life" when a woman has her
last period. It happens when the ovaries stop releasing eggs - usually a gradual
process. Sometimes it happens all at once. Some symptoms of menopause include
achy joins, hot flashes, insomnia, and changes in sexual desire. This usually
occurs between ages 50 and 55.
Men also go through a climacteric, but the quantity of semen declines but does
not end.
Deterioration of Health
Heart attack and
stroke become the leading cause of death in the middle years. Lung cancer,
breast cancer, and cirrhosis of the liver are among the top five causes of
mortality in middle adulthood.
Contributing Factors:
bone mass begins to decrease
loss of skeletal height, calcium loss especially after menopause
decrease in muscle strength & mass if not used; endurance declines
loss of skin elasticity, dry skin, increase appearance of wrinkles
decreased renal functioning, metabolic rate, heat/cold tolerance, prone to infection
receding hairline in males, more facial hair in females
slowing of reflexes
muscle activity may increase or decrease
noticeable loss of hearing and taste
muscle/joints respond more slowly
decreased balance & coordination
more prolonged response to stress