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The Physiology of Aging

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Geriatric Gastroenterology

Abstract

Aging is accompanied by expected, gradual, and progressive changes in organs and systems. Peak function occurs in most organs in the second and third decade of life followed by gradual decline. Most manifestations are subtle and seldom affect daily function. As a result of age-related changes, there is a decline in homeostatic reserves. During periods of increased demand or stress induced by illness, the older adult may experience the reserves to be inadequate for the situation. In particular, physiological changes are expected over time and need to be distinguished from pathological changes resulting from disease. Chronological and biological aging do not necessarily match; aging is highly variable and individualized. Successful aging is the result of several factors including genetics, prevention and management of illness, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA

    T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF (Professor of Medicine, Associate Dean)

  2. Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center (North Division), 600 East 233rd Street, Bronx, NY, 10466, USA

    T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF (Vice Chairman)

  3. Division of Geriatrics, Montefiore Medical Center (North Division), 600 East 233rd Street, Bronx, NY, 10466, USA

    T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF (Clinical Director)

  4. Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Program, Montefiore Medical Center (North Division), 600 East 233rd Street, Bronx, NY, 10466, USA

    T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF (Program Director)

Authors
  1. T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF
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  2. T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF
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Correspondence to T. S. Dharmarajan MD, FACP, AGSF .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Hospital, Department of Medicine, Saint Peter’s University, 254 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, 08901, New Jersey, USA

    C. S. Pitchumoni

  2. (North Division), Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 600 East 233rd Street, Bronx, 10466, New York, USA

    T. S. Dharmarajan

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Dharmarajan, T.S., Dharmarajan, T.S., Dharmarajan, T.S., Dharmarajan, T.S. (2012). The Physiology of Aging. In: Pitchumoni, C., Dharmarajan, T. (eds) Geriatric Gastroenterology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1623-5_4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1623-5_4

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