The truth is, we all age differently; so what's normal for your neighbor may not be normal for you. The important thing is to stay in touch with your doctor by getting regular check ups and alerting him or her when You just don't feel right.
There are some changes, however, that are fairly common as we get older.
Bladder
Nearly a third of all adults 65 and older experience some loss of bladder control, or urinary incontinence. This is not a normal part of aging! Most incontince can be treated. Incontinence is most common among women, especially post-menopausal women. Men may experience incontinence due to an enlarged prostate. Other causes can include obesity, chronic cough or frequent constipation. Many people have corrected their incontinence by simple measures. It may be helpful to see a urologist or nurse that specializes in incontinence. Refer them to the bladder information page.
Bones, muscles, joints
After about age 30, you begin to naturally lose bone mass. As you continue to age, your bones will become less dense and weaker. To prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become so weak that they are prone to break), make sure you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D (talk to your doctor about supplements). You should get 1200 - 1500 mg of Calcium a day and 800 - 1000 IU of vitamin D per day. You should also participate in regular weight-bearing exercise (like walking and lifting hand weights). Check in with your doctor about getting a bone density scan on a regular basis (for women - starting after menopause). It's also normal to experience some tightness and stiffness in joints and muscles, as they tend to lose some strength and flexibility with age. "If you don't use it, you lose it" certainly applies to our bones and muscles as we age.
Brain
As we age, the number of cells (neurons) in our brains decreases. As a result, it's natural to experience some minor lags in memory-you may have a harder time remembering names and details of recent events. You can help keep your mind strong by doing mental exercises like reading, doing crossword puzzles, or memorizing lines of poetry or song lyrics. Getting plenty of physical activity and eating a heart healthy diet can also help by increasing blood flow and oxygen to your brain.
Digestion
Digestion slows down as you get older. As a result, you may experience constipation. Make sure to drink eight glasses of water a day (unless otherwise instructed by your doctor) and eat foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. If constipation is persistent, talk to your doctor.
Hair
It is normal for hair to become gray and thin as you get older. Some people begin to have gray hair as early as their teens or twenties. The extent to which you become gray and/or bald is largely hereditary.
Hearing
Hearing loss is common among people 60 and older. You may find that it is harder to hear high frequencies or carry on a conversation in a crowded room.
Heart
Over time, the heart becomes less efficient at pumping, having to work harder to deliver the same amount of blood throughout your body. As a result, you may experience a rise in blood pressure and a decline in energy or endurance. Take care of your heart by eating a healthy diet low in saturated fat and salt, exercise regularly and don't smoke. You should have your blood pressure checked by a doctor every year.
Height
Because of natural bone loss in your spine, your height may decrease slightly as you age. Take care of your bones by maintaining good posture, practicing weight-bearing exercise and getting sufficient amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
Kidneys and Liver
As you age, your kidneys and liver will become less efficient at cleansing your blood and removing waste from your body. As a result, you should minimize the amount of alcohol you consume and make sure all the medications you take (and their dosages) are approved by your doctor. This includes over the counter medicines such as cold remedies and pain relievers (ibuprofen).
Lungs
Your lungs will become less effective at supplying your body with oxygen if you're inactive. Exercise regularly to keep your lungs strong. It is never too late to stop smoking!
Sexuality
As you age, your sexual needs, patterns and performance may change. Women tend to experience vaginal dryness, which can make sex painful; there are many water-based lubricants available that can help make sex more comfortable. Men tend to experience difficulties getting or keeping an erection. If erectile dysfunction is significantly interfering with your ability to have sex, talk to your doctor about medications that can help. Despite these changes, your sexuality is still an important part of your overall health. Seek out ways to maintain intimacy with your partner beyond intercourse. Again, eating a healthy diet and staying physically active is the first step to take in overall healthy aging.
Skin
With age, you can expect your skin to become more lined and wrinkled due to a natural decrease in elasticity and natural oil production. Sun exposure and smoking are other primary causes of wrinkles and skin damage. You may also find that your skin bruises more easily. Though we can't avoid wrinkles entirely, you can slow down the aging process by using a moisturizer, drinking plenty of water, not smoking, and shielding your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
Sleep
You may find that you need less sleep as you get older, or you may wake up more frequently throughout the night. If you find yourself feeling tired or not well-rested, try taking short naps during the day. Having a regular bedtime routine with calming activities such as a warm drink, gentle music, and a dark room are much safer than sleeping pills. Avoid the use of sleeping pills as they frequently lead to falls and daytime sleepiness.
Teeth
As we age, our mouths tend to produce less saliva, which can result in dry mouth, receding gums, oral infections and tooth decay. Your teeth may become yellow and more brittle, especially if you smoke. Brushing your teeth and flossing at least twice a day is important not only for the health of your teeth, but also for your heart and lungs. The bacteria that forms in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and lungs to cause infection, so keep the germs away by brushing regularly. You may also find that you need dental replacements or dentures. Visit your dentist at least once a year for a routine checkup and cleaning.
Vision
As your eyes age, they become less able to produce tears, which can make them feel dry or scratchy. Most people in their 40s start finding it difficult to read things up close. Other vision problems can include sensitivity to light and glare, cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Have your vision tested every year by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Good vision is an important part of preventing falls and hip fractures!
Weight
Metabolism slows down as we age and many people begin to gain weight. Weight gain can largely be avoided by eating a healthy diet (as you age, you need fewer calories) and exercising regularly. It is important to incorporate weight-bearing exercise (walking, hand weights, etc.) into your routine to keep your muscles and bones strong. Maintaining muscle will also help keep your metabolism up.
