Physiological Changes in the Life Course PT.2

Young Adult ( 18-34 years)

adolescence to middle adulthood

physical and emotional changes

Preparing for adult rights, responsibilities and privileges

Physical growth complete by 20 years (Peak physical health)

Visual acuity peak 20 years

Hearing peak 20 years

Peak period for risky behaviors

Nutritional requirements

caloric increases substantually

Females child bearing age need iron, folic acid (0.4 mg/d) and calcium

Nutrient dense foods: Whole grains, fruits, veg, low fat milk, lean meat and protein sources

Middle-Age adult (35-64 years)

Biological, physiological, social, psychological and spiritual changes occur

changing family and social responsibilties

Physiological peak declines

Sedentary behavior = biggest public health problem 21st century

22% deaths worldwide occur due to lack of physical activity and sedentary lifestyle

Changes associated with aging

83% drink/ eat too much.

If sedentary functional aerobic capacity decreases

Blood vessels lose elasticity

Bone density and bone mass decrease

Changes in body composition

Osteoarthritis has peak onset in middle age

Appearance changes = hair thinning/ skin loses moisture and subcutaneous fat

Nutritional concerns

Chronic life-style conditions

Eat a healthy well-balanced diet

Maintain a healthy weight

Be Physically active

Include adequate calcium in diet

Reduce sodium

Practice good oral hygiene

Older Adult 65+

Aging is natural and inevitable, associated with deleterious changes in physiologic functioning

Loss of muscle strength - Participate in resistance and aerobic activities

Sensory decline e.g Taste, Smell, vision

Delayed gastric emptying

Lean mass replaced by fat

Reduced kidney and liver function

Loss of neurons and neuronal connections

Nutritional concerns

Many older adults are poorly nourished

Barriers to good nutrition: Living at home

Limited income, transportation, social support

38% of women and 30% men living in care homes are malnourished

Barriers to good nutrition: Care home

Bland food, high in fat, sugar and low fibre, lack of fresh fruit and veg, problems with feeding self

Compounded by ill health, poor dentition, decline in GI function

Nutritional Recommendations

Fruit + Veg dominate

Colouful Choices are healthy

Frozen and canned foods are ok

Calories count

Salt is off the table

Don't forget to drink

Have grains for fibre

Include dairy and protien