We all change physically as we grow older. Certain physical changes are associated with aging. However, we have come to realize that many changes we used to think were "normal aging" are actually the result of disease, environment, or lifestyle. Some changes are a combination of more than one of these factors. This means that there are some physical changes that you can prevent or slow down through your actions.

Your response time will slow down as you age. To some extent, this is normal. However, if you stay active both physically and mentally, you can slow the rate at which this happens.

You are likely to lose muscle mass as you age unless you stay physically active. An older adult loses muscle more easily and has more trouble gaining new muscle than a younger person. However, an older adult can keep his or her muscle with exercise.

You are also likely to lose flexibility as you grow older. Yoga, tai chi, water exercises, and daily stretching are some techniques that can help keep you flexible.

The skin changes also as you grow older. It grows thinner, takes longer to heal, gets wrinkles, and loses some of its elastic quality. But much of what we think of as damage from aging is actually damage from the sun. Wearing a 30 SPF or higher sunscreen can help your skin. Don't forget about using lipstick or lip balm with sunscreens, too.

As your body changes you may need to lower your doses of medications, drugs, and alcohol. Medications will take longer to leave your system. Alcohol will affect you differently.

Take care of your health and you are likely to experience fewer physical changes.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go