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How Age Impacts Functionality in Older Adults
There’s an old saying among doctors: if you’ve seen one 80-year-old, you’ve seen one 80-year-old. Some will act like they’re 60 or 70, while others seem a lot older. So, instead of asking How old is too old?, shouldn’t the question be, How old is too old for what function?
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According to Dr. Louise Aronson, a geriatrician and professor of medicine at the University of San Francisco, age does matter. “Your body changes, your brain changes. What I would like to see is a conversation where we actually discuss the things that matter,” she said.
The Complexity of Aging
A healthy human brain has up to 100 billion nerve cells making trillions of connections with each other. Recent research suggests a normal part of aging involves forgetting less important memories to help make room for new ones. However, the problem arises when normal forgetting is coupled with an abnormal process causing dementia.
Dr. LaPook highlighted the biggest fear his patients have – the fear of losing cognitive function. The initial signs often include forgetting familiar names or misplacing objects. While some memory lapses can be attributed to normal aging or lack of attention, others may indicate a more serious issue.
Challenges Faced by Older Workers
The discussion around age and functionality becomes particularly crucial in the workforce. With the number of older workers increasing, questions about retirement age and performance evaluations arise. While many professions have no age limits, exceptions exist for roles where public safety is a concern.
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Dr. Mark Katlic, a thoracic surgeon, recognized the need for evaluating older surgeons to ensure optimal performance. He created the Aging Surgeon Program, offering comprehensive physical and cognitive assessments to surgeons over a certain age. This proactive approach aims to combat ageism by focusing on functional abilities rather than chronological age.
Redefining Aging and Productivity
As society continues to expand lifespan, redefining aging becomes essential. Dr. Aronson advocates for finding ways to support individuals in remaining productive while recognizing when it may be time to transition to a different phase of life. Embracing the realities of aging and maintaining dignity through transitions are key aspects of successful aging.
In conclusion, age is just a number, but functionality is a crucial factor in determining one’s capabilities. By focusing on function rather than age, individuals can continue to contribute meaningfully to society while ensuring their well-being.
Source: louisearonson.com
Book Reference: “Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life” by Louise Aronson (Bloomsbury)
Surgeon Profile: Mark Katlic, chief of surgery, LifeBridge Health Systems
Program Information: The Aging Surgeon Program
Story produced by Mark Hudspeth. Editor: Remington Korper.
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