Final answer:
Aging affects individuals differently but commonly leads to issues such as arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, and slower immune response. Lifestyle choices like exercise can slow down the effects of aging. The perception of these changes is also influenced by individual attitudes and socialization towards aging.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of Aging on Physiological and Health-Related Variables
The effects of aging on physiological and health-related variables can have a significant impact on the quality of life and overall wellbeing. As individuals age, certain health issues become more prevalent. According to the federal Administration on Aging, fewer people above sixty-five years old rate their health as "excellent" or "very good" compared to younger adults. Common health concerns for the elderly include arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, and cancer, with obesity being a significant issue as well. However, it's important to note these conditions are not unanimously experienced by all seniors.
Internally, aging is associated with an increased incidence of heart diseases, respiratory syndromes, and type 2 diabetes, along with a decreased capacity of the immune system leading to slower wound healing and a higher frequency of infection. This internal deterioration of the physiologic state alongside social and psychological changes marks the aging process. Furthermore, primary aging occurs due to biological factors, while secondary aging is attributed to lifestyle choices such as lack of exercise and poor diet.
The good news is that studies suggest that regular exercise and healthy lifestyle choices can mitigate some of the adverse effects of aging. Keeping active can help maintain both physical and psychological health and slow down the progression of aging-related deterioration.