Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, heart disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in adults over 65. This article will delve into the physiological changes that address the crucial question: what is the impact of aging on cardiac output?
While the query “why does cardiac output increase with age?” is a common search, the premise is a myth, as a healthy individual's cardiac output at rest typically remains stable over time. In reality, the cardiovascular system undergoes several key age-related changes, including a decline in maximal capacity, but maintains resting function through compensatory mechanisms. This article clarifies the science behind these changes and separates fact from fiction regarding the aging heart.
While resting cardiac output remains stable in healthy individuals, the heart's maximal pumping capacity during exercise declines significantly with age. Understanding this key distinction is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular wellness as we get older and managing the body's response to stress.
