The Aging Respiratory System

The aging Respiratory System is characterized by a progressive reduction in physiologic capacity, changes in respiratory mechanics, increased rigidity of the chest wall, a more convex thoracic shape, increased ossification and calcification of the costal cartilages, decreased strength of the respiratory muscles, loss of alveolar surface tension, reduced pulmonary capillary blood volume and decreased diameter of the small airways beginning in the third decade of life. Any and all of these age-related changes can cause reduced chest wall compliance, diminished elastic recoil pressures, reductions in vital capacity and an increase the volume of air remaining in the lungs that does not get utilized during gas exchange. Airway clearance mechanisms are less effective in older individuals, as well. Impaired respiratory mechanics and weakened respiratory muscles decrease cough effectiveness. All of these factors place elderly persons at greater risk for developing pneumonia with any respiratory illnesses (Fragoso, 2015; Winchester & Winchester, 2015; Ferrand, 2014; Samsam, 2015; Shier Butler, Lewis, 2015; Talaro & Chess, 2012).