Age significantly impacts immune function, generally causing a decline as people get older. After the age of 60 or 70, the immune system’s ability to defend against infections weakens, making older adults more susceptible to illnesses such as COVID-19. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, exercise, and avoiding harmful substances can help support immune function as you age.
How Does the Immune System Change With Age?
As people age, the immune system undergoes changes that can reduce its effectiveness. The thymus-dependent subsystem, which defends against microorganisms and detects/removes changed body cells, can become less efficient. This decline increases the risk of infections and reduces the body’s ability to fight off diseases.
Why Are Older Adults More Vulnerable to Infections?
Older adults are more vulnerable to infections for several reasons:
- Weakened Immune Function After the age of 60 or 70, the immune system’s ability to fight off infectious agents declines.
- Chronic Diseases Many older people are affected by chronic diseases that further weaken the immune system.
- Reduced Ability to Defend Against Disease The body’s overall ability to defend itself against disease declines with age, making older individuals more susceptible to infections and other bodily defects.
What Role Does Nutrition Play in Maintaining Immune Function in Older Adults?
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function as people age. Inadequate nutrition can further compromise declining immune function, making older adults more susceptible to infections. Common problems such as tooth loss, decreased sense of taste and smell, and a sense of isolation can lead to decreased food intake and weight loss, further impairing nutritional status.
How Can Lifestyle Choices Impact Immune Health as We Age?
Lifestyle choices significantly impact immune health as we age. Healthful dietary practices, limited alcohol use, avoidance of tobacco products, and regular physical activity can help reduce the chance of premature death and increase the chance of vitality in older years. Staying physically fit can improve strength and balance, preventing falls and contributing to overall health.
Are There Specific Nutrients That Can Help Boost Immunity in Older Adults?
Yes, certain nutrients can help boost immunity in older adults. Intake of antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, as well as the mineral zinc, may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in people older than 65 years. Vitamin D supplementation may also be needed to help preserve bone mass, especially for those with reduced sun exposure or low intakes of fatty fish or vitamin D-fortified food.
What Other Age-Related Diseases Affect the Body?
The elderly commonly manifest disorders of the heart, blood vessels, and joints. The heart disease of the elderly is related to the generalized vascular disease known as arteriosclerosis, which frequently attacks the major coronary arteries of the heart. Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) is common among the elderly, causing pain, discomfort, and lack of mobility.
As we age, our immune function declines, making us more susceptible to infections and diseases. However, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity, can help support immune function and overall health as we age.
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