Old age is associated with disease; but, does not cause it per se. Any deterioration is from treatable disease until proved otherwise.

     Most old age people are fit. 95% of those over 65 years and 80% of those over 85 years do not live in institutions. 70% can manage activities of daily living without help.

     DO NOT ACCEPT PROBLEMS AS THE INEVITABLE RESULT OF AGEING. LOOK FOR DISEASE, LOSS OF FITNESS AND SOCIAL FACTORS.

     DO NOT RESTRICT TREATMENT SIMPLY BECAUSE A PERSON IS OLD.

Common Effects

1. Diffuse Hair loss
2. Preshyopia (impaired close vision)
3. Cervical Spondylosis (impaired balance)
4. Loss of skin elasticity
5. Osteoporosis
6. Osteoarthritis
7. Reduced Taste
8. Impaired Glucose Tolerance
9. High Tone Deafness
10. Constipation
11. Muscle Wasting
12. Loss of Position sense (impaired balance)
Changes in Vestibular nuclei, cerebellum, lower limb weakness
Contribute to deterioration of balance

Giants of Geriatric Medicine refer to four most common cause of incapacity in elderly:

1. Acute confusion
2. Urinary Incontinence
3. Immobility
4. Falls