The appropriate functioning of the endocrine system is diminished with ageing. The secretion of several hormones is reduced with ageing, it also reduces its sensitivity. However, these changes vary considerably between individuals.
Some of these changes include,
The decline of estrogen levels causes menopause in women.
Reduced growth hormone causes loss of muscle mass and strength.
Decreased melatonin levels cause sleep disturbances.
Reduced insulin sensitivity in some may cause diabetes.
Hormones that may increase include follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and parathyroid hormone.