There is little change in digestion in normal aging, and most problems result from disease or less than optimal diet and lifestyle. It is normal for the kidneys to become smaller and have significantly decreased function with age, however some studies have shown no fall in function, and a few participants even showed an increase.

Blood flow through the kidneys gradually decreases. Similarly, the liver decreases in weight and blood flow. The stomach begins to secrete less acid, which can affect the absorption of certain vitamins and nutrients. Function generally remains stable in healthy individuals, however the age-related changes in these systems may account for changes in the processing and elimination of certain drugs.

Common Problems

Genitourinary tract dysfunction is common in the elderly. Common dysfunctions include: increased frequency of urination, inability to hold urine, increased need to urinate at night. Incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. It may be caused by changes in the body due to disease. For example, incontinence may be a symptom of a urinary tract infection or (for men) increased prostate size.

Implications for Older Adults

One serious implication of changes in the digestive and urinary systems is the issue of medications. Even healthy older people eliminate some drugs from the body more slowly than younger persons and therefore require a lower or less frequent dosage to maintain an effective level of medication.

References and Further Resources

Web Sites

National Association for Continence

National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases

Articles & Reports

International Food Information Council. (1998). Better eating for better aging.
http://ificinfo.health.org/insight/befba.htm

National Institute on Aging. (1995). Age Page. Medicines: using them safely. Washington, D.C.: National Institute on Aging.
http://www.aoa.gov/aoa/pages/agepages/medicine.html

National Institute on Aging. (1996). Age Page. Urinary incontinence. Washington, D.C.: National Institute on Aging.
http://www.nih.gov/nia/health/agepages/urinary.htm

 

 

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