In fact, personality remains relatively consistent across the adult years. Older people barely cope with the inevitable declines associated with aging. In fact, most older people successfully adjust to the challenges of aging. Common age-associated physical changes Hearing impairment in older adults is often mild or moderate, but widespread. 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.