Alternative Names age-related changes in vital signs
Definition Vital signs can be an important sign of health or illness. Vital signs include temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. Each of these things may be affected by ageing.
What is the information for this topic? As people age, normal changes often occur in their vital signs.
The body temperature often remains normal. However, the body must work harder to control temperature. This is the reason older people often feel cold in a room that has normal temperature. The ability to get rid of excess heat is also reduced, making older persons more likely to suffer in hot weather.
The heart rate may slow and not speed up as quickly, such as when a person exercises. The heart rate may also take longer to return to normal after exercise. The maximum heart rate that is normally possible decreases with age.
Blood pressure rises in many people. Hardening of the arteries may cause this change in some people. Though it commonly increases with age, blood pressure that is high needs treatment to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
The breathing rate is less affected by age than other vital signs. However, lung function decreases with age. Older people may not be able to exercise as much or as easily as in younger days.
Any noticeable trouble with vital signs should be discussed with a doctor. Many steps can be taken to help keep vital signs under control. Medications may be required.
Certain tips can help avoid problems with vital signs. Older people should avoid:
extreme hot or cold conditions, to prevent possible temperature problems.
rapid changes in position, such as suddenly standing up from a lying position, which may cause sharp changes in blood pressure and dizziness.
extreme exercise, which may cause heart rate or breathing rate problems.
Some changes in vital signs may be caused by medications taken for other problems.
People should discuss any concerns with their doctor.
Author: James Broomfield, MD Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
