Final answer:
Aging affects the integumentary system leading to a thinner epidermis, reduced dermal blood supply, drier skin, decreased immunity, a paler complexion, and an increased appearance of wrinkles due to less collagen and elastin.
Step-by-step explanation:
As the body ages, several changes occur within the integumentary system, impacting the skin's structure and function. The epidermis, which is the skin's outermost layer, becomes thinner due to decreased cell division in the stratum basale. Concurrently, the dermal blood supply diminishes, leading to less nourishment and oxygenation of the skin. Glandular activity reductions result in decreased sebum and sweat production, causing the skin to become drier and potentially leading to heat intolerance in the elderly.
Furthermore, a decreased number of Langerhans cells diminishes the skin's immune response, while lowered production of melanin by melanocytes results in a paler complexion. The skin's ability to produce essential substances like Vitamin D also declines. The overall effect of these changes includes increased susceptibility to skin damage, a longer healing process for wounds, and the appearance of wrinkles due to a decrease in collagen and elastin within the dermis. Muscle tone loss under the skin further contributes to the visual appearance of aging.