Which respiratory change occurs in the elderly population?

In the elderly population, there are various physiological changes that occur within the respiratory system, and decreased vital capacity is one of the most significant changes. Vital capacity refers to the maximum amount of air a person can exhale after a maximum inhalation. As individuals age, several factors contribute to a reduction in vital capacity, including the loss of elastic recoil in the lungs and a decrease in the strength of the respiratory muscles, which diminishes the efficiency of ventilation.

Additionally, aging can lead to structural changes in the lungs and chest wall, including a stiffened thoracic cage and changes in the lung parenchyma, which further impact the volume of air that can be effectively moved in and out of the lungs. Thus, a decrease in vital capacity can result in impaired gas exchange, reduced endurance, and an increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses.

This understanding underscores the importance of monitoring respiratory function in elderly patients, especially in situations where moderate sedation is employed, as they are at a higher risk for complications arising from reduced respiratory function.