Notes on Physical Development in Late Adulthood

Sarcopenia and Osteoporosis:
- Sarcopenia: Loss of muscle mass and strength, impacting mobility.
- Osteoporosis: Loss of bone density, leading to spinal changes and height loss.
- Typical posture: Slumped shoulders, hunched neck, tilted pelvis.
- Observational signs: Older adults often appear shorter as their vertebrae fuse.
- Example: Shuffle walking due to loss of flexibility and joint stability.

Preventing Muscle and Bone Loss:
- Strength training is crucial; older adults can begin with light weights (e.g., 2-pound dumbbells).
- Walking and light activities can significantly enhance mobility and strength.
- Tai Chi is also recommended for balancing and flexibility.

Skin Development:
- Appearance of age spots; skin texture changes to resemble crepe paper due to collagen loss.
- Skin cancer risk increases significantly in this age group.
Body Composition:
- Changes from approximately 33% muscle and 20% fat earlier in life to less muscle and more fat around age 75.

Brain Shrinkage:
- The brain physically decreases in size; less mass due to neuron and axon shrinkage.
- Myelin Sheath Loss: Slower nerve impulse transmission leading to reduced reaction time and coordination.
- Importance of maintaining cognitive exercises like puzzles to build a cognitive reserve.
- Higher education and income correlate with better cognitive reserves and lower dementia risks.

Hippocampal Volume Study:
- Exercise linked to health improvements in older adults, specifically in memory via hippocampal volume enhancement.
- Aerobic exercise shows more significant benefits than stretching alone.

Sleep Difficulties:
- Often become less active during the day, leading to nighttime wakefulness.
- Solutions include avoiding caffeine after noon and engaging in regular conversations or activities to combat daytime lethargy.

Vision:
- Continued reduction in vision abilities; lenses harden, become yellowish, and can also develop cataracts.
- Common eye conditions: Cataracts (cloudy vision), Glaucoma (increased pressure leading to blindness), Macular Degeneration (loss of central vision).
Hearing Loss:
- Significant loss of hearing; contributes to reluctance in social participation.
- Hearing aids are often rejected due to pride or stigma.
Smell and Taste:
- Diminished sense of smell and taste can lead to decreased food enjoyment and safety issues (e.g., spoiling food).

Balance and Stability Concerns:
- Changes in perception and joint instability contribute to falls and injuries.
- Often withdraw from activities due to fear of falling.
- Effective interventions include yoga and balance exercises to enhance stability.
Neuropathy Issues:
- Diminished feeling in extremities can lead to unnoticed injuries and chronic pain elsewhere.

Continuous Engagement:
- Involvement in activities; regular physical activity to maintain mobility and mental health.
- Supporting older adults in staying active, trying new things can yield significant health benefits.
Future Discussions:
- Next class will delve into cognitive development and how relationships evolve in late adulthood. Expect discussions about lifespan versus life expectancy.