Primary aging reflects changes in physiologic reserves over time that are independent of and not induced by any disease. These changes are especially apt to appear during periods of stress, such as exposure to fluctuating temperatures, dehydration, or even shock. Decreased cutaneous vasoconstriction and sweat production can impair responses to heat; declines in thirst may delay recovery from dehydration; and the physiologic drops in maximum cardiac output left ventricular filling and maximum heart rate seen with aging may impair the response to shock.
At the same time, the aging population displays marked heterogeneity. Investigators have identified vast differences in how people age and have distinguished “usual” aging, with its complex of diseases and impairments, from “optimal” aging. Optimal aging occurs in those people who escape debilitating disease entirely and maintain healthy lives late into their 80s and 90s. Genes and healthy lifestyles are found to influence longevity. These findings provide compelling evidence for promoting optimal nutrition, strength training and exercise, and daily function for older adults to delay unnecessary depletion of physiologic reserves.
Discussion Question:
As nurses, we complete physical assessments routinely, even though they are typically focused assessments. What type of technology have you seen utilized in your assessment process that assists in effectively communicating findings both orally and in written format? Without technology, how do you ensure effective communication for assessment findings?
