Physical Changes During Adulthood

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Feb 20, 2024

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Physical Changes During Adulthood Christina Spivey PSY-358: Adult Development and Aging Dr. Sara Boz November 10, 2023 2

Physical Changes During Adulthood Two Significant Physical Changes as We Age As we age, our skin experiences several changes that lead to lines, wrinkles, and drooping. One of these changes is a loss in its suppleness. Sun exposure can induce an uneven distribution of melanin, which can result in the appearance of age-related marks or liver spots (Skoczyńska et al., 2017). Due to decreased production of sebum, older skin also tends to become drier, which makes it more prone to injury and causes it to become irritable and dry. The skin also gets thinner and more delicate, which increases its vulnerability to bruising, rips, and injuries. Major modifications to the muscoskeletal system, which includes the joints, muscles, and bones, are also brought about by maturing. These changes include a reduction in the density of bones that leads to fragility and a higher likelihood of breakage, particularly in women who have had menopause. Progressive muscle loss, or a condition called sarcopenia diminishes power, movement, and equilibrium, which has an impact on everyday tasks. Osteoarthritis, which frequently impacts joints that bear weight like the ones in the knees and hips and generates stiffness and pain in the joint, can be spurred on by cartilage disintegration, which can make joints become more rigid and more unbending. Furthermore, aging frequently results in a reduction in joint range of motion and flexibility, which presents difficulties for motions and activities needing an elevated level of flexibility. Characteristics that Become More Severe The changes in appearance that come with ageing might be made worse by several things. Long-term, unprotected sun exposure speeds up the aging process of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and age-related pigmentation to appear (Merin et al., 2022). Nicotine hinders the movement of vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin, eliminates fibers made of collagen and 3

elastin, and decreases the vessels in the body. By depriving the skin of vital defenses against free radicals, an inadequate diet low in vital nutrients, particularly antioxidants, can accelerate the aging process of the skin (Merin et al., 2022). Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle can hasten the deterioration of joints, muscles, and flexibility. Insufficient sleep can negatively affect skin health by causing inflammation, compromising the integrity of the skin barrier, and making one more susceptible to skin issues. By using sun protection methods, such as administering sunscreen and donning clothing, damage caused by ultraviolet radiation can be minimized. Giving up smoking can help your skin. Including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats in your diet will give your skin the nutrients and antioxidants it needs to be healthy. Consistent vigorous activity, such as cardiovascular exercise and flexibility training, promotes musculoskeletal suppleness and wellness. Aging will be delayed if you regulate your stress using techniques that reduce stress. Effects on the Body, Mind, and Society Age spots, fine lines, and other aging-related skin changes can have a variety of effects on an individual (Zhang & Duan, 2018). These changes affect how one feels about their body and how they look physically. Due to a lack of self-worth and a deeper sense of self some people may cognitively become less secure and dissatisfied with their outward appearance (Cavanaugh, 2024). These skin alterations may have an adverse effect on social interactions by making people feel uncomfortable or less confident in social situations, as well as possibly lowering engagement and interactions. Aging-related musculoskeletal changes have an impact on the body, mind, and society. Physically speaking, low bone density raises the chance of broken bones, which can result in diminished mobility, persistent apprehension, and a general deterioration in physical 4

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function. Pain and physical restrictions can psychologically affect participation and engagement, making it difficult to engage in exercise. Expert-Made Procedures Regular exercise and eating a balanced diet are essential for preventative measures. To support good skin and avoid aging-related changes, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats should be well-balanced and nutrient-rich (Leitão et al., 2022). Maintaining the hydration and suppleness of your skin also requires drinking enough water. Exercises that combine strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and flexibility training are crucial for both controlling and preventing musculoskeletal alterations. Exercises that are aerobic promote cardiovascular wellness and happiness in general, while resistance training helps maintain strength and density in bones. Exercises for flexibility enhance joint flexibility and breadth of movement. Women going through menopause may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a treatment option. HRT replaces the hormones that are lost during menopause while taking the dangers and personal medical histories into accountPhysical therapy is a vital treatment to enhance flexibility and overall physical well-being, focusing on neuromuscular deviations, and minimizing pain. A therapist who specializes in physical therapy may create an individual therapy regimen with stretches, workouts, and procedures to help equilibrium, tone muscle tissue, and enhance the movement of joints. Using canes, walking aids, or scooters for transportation are instances of assistive devices that can help with adaptable resources while improving motion. To evaluate each person's needs and guarantee that these aids are fitted and used properly, it is crucial to speak with medical specialists or physical therapists. Adaptive skin care resources can be beneficial for people with 5

restricted mobility. Long-handled brushes are one possible resource for accessing hard-to-reach places. 6

References Cavanaugh, J. C. (2024). Adult development and aging (9th ed.). Cengage Learning. ISBN-13: 9780357796276. Fekete, M., Szarvas, Z., Fazekas-Pongor, V., Feher, A., Csipo, T., Forrai, J., Dosa, N., Peterfi, A., Lehoczki, A., Tarantini, S., & Varga, J. T. (2022). Nutrition Strategies Promoting Healthy Aging: From Improvement of Cardiovascular and Brain Health to Prevention of Age- Associated Diseases. Nutrients , 15 (1), 47. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15010047 Leitão, C., Mignano, A., Estrela, M., Fardilha, M., Figueiras, A., Roque, F., & Herdeiro, M. T. (2022). The Effect of Nutrition on Aging-A Systematic Review Focusing on Aging- Related Biomarkers. Nutrients , 14 (3), 554. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14030554 Merin, K. A., Shaji, M., & Kameswaran, R. (2022). A Review on Sun Exposure and Skin Diseases. Indian journal of dermatology , 67 (5), 625. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijd.ijd_1092_20 Skoczyńska, A., Budzisz, E., Trznadel-Grodzka, E., & Rotsztejn, H. (2017). Melanin and lipofuscin as hallmarks of skin aging. Postepy dermatologii i alergologii , 34 (2), 97–103. https://doi.org/10.5114/ada.2017.67070 7

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