Physical Development
Brain shrinks; 5-10% loss in mass Brain volume decreases (up to 15%)
Immune System Decline Low level of protein linked to decrease in T cells
Sensory Eyes Retina receives only 1/3rd of light by age 60 Disorders such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts Loss in depth perception Loss in colour vision
Most older adults lose some of their sense of smell or taste, or both Reductions in the ability to smell and taste can reduce enjoyment of food and life satisfaction
Older adults are less sensitive to pain and suffer from it less than younger adults (Harkins, Price, & Martinelli, 1986).