Visual changes include problems with reading speed, seeing in dim light, reading scrolling or other externally paced displays, reading small print, and locating objects visually. Reaction time is typically slower, particularly for more complex tasks. Common co-morbidities include arthritis, hypertension, cataracts, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Functional ability is most important. Seventy-five percent of community dwelling elderly have no functional impairments.
Functional impairments can occur in two areas.
After age 65, a greater proportion of women than men become disabled. The top five causes of death among older adults are heart disease, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, pneumonia and influenza, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. People who are intelligent, well educated, have had intellectually demanding jobs, are curious and interested in what is going on in the world, and challenge their minds are least likely to show declines. Language abilities are well preserved. Probably the more important cognitive declines.