Aging Changes in Body Shape
As an individual ages, his or her body shape gradually changes. This is a normal part of aging.
What is the information for this topic?
A person's body is made up of many different materials. These include fat, muscle, bone, water, and other substances. As an individual gets older, the amount and location of these materials change. This is clearly seen when one compares a small child, a middle-aged adult, and an older adult. The proportion of body fat often increases by as much as 30% as a person ages. Fat is more often deposited toward the center of the body. Much of this fat is deposited around the organs inside the abdomen. The increase in body fat mass is seen most often in the abdomen in men and the thighs in women. Other normal age-related changes in the body shape include:
curvature of the spine because of osteoporosis, or bone thinning
a decrease in fat right under the skin, which causes the skin to become thinner and wrinkled
a decrease of roughly one centimeter in height for every 10 years after the age of 40
decreased muscle mass throughout the body
increased curvature in the hips and knees
narrower shoulders and hips
weight loss, which usually begins after 55 in men and after 65 in women
There are many age-related changes that cannot be prevented. However, certain lifestyle changes may help to reduce age-related changes. These include:
avoiding illicit drugs and excess alcohol intake
avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
eating a well-balanced diet, following the food guide pyramid
getting physical activity every day, including weight-bearing exercise
staying active mentally, socially, and emotionally
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