The male body typically changes significantly over the lifetime, both in appearance and within. Here are the most common changes to expect over the years.
Muscle Mass Declines
Lower muscle mass over time tends to happen. Muscle mass typically declines by about 5% per decade after age 30, with about 30% loss over the lifespan. That can lead to lower strength and make it harder to move around, which may put you off exercising as often. It can also lead to falls, increasing the risks of injury.
Aging Bones
Changes to the bones also occur for men, with them becoming more brittle in most older adults. Also, bone formation lowers with age, potentially leading to skeletal issues. With bone loss can come osteoporosis over time, putting men at risk of fractures. A warning sign of weaker, thinner bones in men is losing about an inch of height. Lowering the risk of developing osteoporosis involves regular exercise after getting your doctor’s approval for the fitness plan.
Change in Hormones
Declining testosterone levels happen naturally after age 30 for many men. A reduction in this hormone can lead men to feel tired and contribute to lower bone and muscle mass. To help maintain a healthy amount of testosterone in the body, consider altering what you eat, given that lifestyle modifications can improve it. Find out what foods encourage testosterone production by reading https://risemenshealth.com/food-decrease-increase-testosterone/ to help stay within a healthy range.
Hair and Aging Men
Balding may happen to men. You have likely heard of the term “male-pattern baldness”, and it is quite common for males. It is a slow process that refers to a hairline that starts to thin on the crown and the hairline recedes or moves further back. While some men begin to experience hair loss in their 30s or 40s, others get it much younger, even when they are teenagers. Some people take medications or get surgery for treatment. For medications, always get a doctor’s approval and only take in the way it is prescribed.
Weaker Immune System
Men may also notice that when they get sick from the cold or flu, they feel under the weather longer when they are older than in their 20s. The reason is a naturally declining immune system as you age. Be cautious about being around sick people to help avoid getting ill yourself, and avoid going outside when it is extra cold unless you are wearing warm clothing.
What about the Mind?
Yes, there are also mental changes over the years. Mental decline typically occurs slowly, although genetics can be one factor that causes a speedier loss of cognitive function. Keeping the mind active through crosswords and other activities can help slow down cognitive loss over time. It is exercise for the mind.
Concluding the Topic of Aging and Men
Of course, every man is unique and these changes will occur at different rates for each one and show up differently. The aging process is not all bad, either, as you enjoy the finer things in life in retirement. Plus, you can slow the process by eating right, exercising with a doctor’s pre-approval to ensure you do so safely, and keeping your mind active.