Physical Health

Physical changes experienced through adulthood

 

Each person experiences age-related physical changes based on two factors: 

 

  • Biological factors: molecular and cellular changes, and oxidative damage (also called primary aging), and;

 

  • Aging due to controllable factors, such as an unhealthy lifestyle including lack of physical exercise and poor diet, (also known as secondary aging).  

Staying in shape as we age is absolutely possible and not an unavoidable consequence of growing older. Many of the changes we associate with aging are often linked to reduced physical activity, increased stress, or lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, or lack of exercise. Chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis can also play a role in diminishing overall health. The good news is that embracing healthier choices—like staying active, eating nutritious foods, managing stress, and avoiding harmful habits—can make a significant difference. With a little effort and care, it’s entirely possible to maintain vitality and well-being at any stage of life!

 

The simple physiological changes that accompany middle adulthood are somewhat inevitable, but the importance of physical activity and of not succumbing to the temptations of a sedentary life at this age range would be difficult to overstate.  

 

Human beings reach peak bone mass around 35-40.  After menopause women can lose 5-10% bone mass per year, rendering it advisable to monitor intakes of calcium and Vitamin D, and evaluate individual risk factors.  

 

Osteoporosis is a “silent disease” which progresses until a fracture occurs. It is often associated with women due to the fact that bone mass can deteriorate in women much more quickly in middle age due to menopause.   Attention to this, at this stage of life, may bring pronounced health benefits now and later.  

 

There are also changes in vision, hearing, more joint pain, and weight gain. Weight gain, also referred to as the middle-aged spread, is a common complaint of midlife women.  It is due to the metabolism slowing by about one-third during midlife.

 

The health benefits that walking and other physical activity have on the women’s body during mid adulthood are immense.  Midlife adults also have to eat less, and watch their nutrition to maintain their earlier physique.

 

The years between 30 and 60 can see the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.  It is the third most common form of arthritis and it affects women more than men, by a factor of around 3 to 1. Peak onset for women is around the early 40s. 

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