Effects of Aging on the Senses
| Home | | Anatomy and Physiology | | Anatomy and Physiology Health Education (APHE) |Chapter: Anatomy and Physiology for Health Professionals: Special Senses
Aging affects each of the senses in varying ways. The eyes begin to lose the ability to see clearly up close or to focus when not in bright light.
Effects
of Aging on the Senses
Aging affects each of the senses in varying ways. The eyes
begin to lose the ability to see clearly up close or to focus when not in
bright light. The tissues of the eyes may become drier and the skin around the
eyes may sag. The iris loses flexibility and cataracts may form slowly over
time. Pressure changes in the eyes can lead to glaucoma. Macular degeneration
destroys sharp, central vision. FIGURE
15-17 illustrates common visual problems.
Hearing loss progresses with age and affects men more than
women. The ear canals become thinner, earwax production changes, and the
ability to perceive certain ranges of frequencies becomes difficult or even
impossible. The eardrums thicken and loss of hair cells in the ear brings about
hearing difficulties. Causes of hair cell loss include nerve damage, trauma,
loud noises, and certain medications. Aging also affects our balance and
coordination and the perception of smells and tastes.
