How Our Bodies Change as We Age: Understanding the Surprising Shifts
1. Teeth Shift and Drift Over Time
As we age, many of us notice unexpected changes in our bodies, and one common yet surprising change is the shifting of teeth. In particular, lower teeth often become more crooked over time, even in individuals who once had perfectly straight teeth thanks to braces during adolescence. This phenomenon is not unusual, according to Dr. Leila Jahangiri, chair of prosthodontics at New York University College of Dentistry. She explains that teeth naturally "shift and drift" as we get older, with the lower teeth being more prone to movement than the upper ones. The reasons for this shift can vary, including tooth loss, gum disease, or excessive wear from grinding. While not everyone experiences this change, it’s a common part of aging that many people notice.
2. The Evolution of Your Voice
Another surprising change that comes with aging is the evolution of your voice. Dr. Ted Mau, director of the voice center at UT Southwestern Medical Center, notes that as we age, our vocal cords become thinner and less supple, which can lead to changes in the way we sound. For example, older men may find their voices becoming higher in pitch, while women may experience a deeper tone due to hormonal changes. While these changes are often subtle, they can still be noticeable and may affect how others perceive us. However, if you notice abrupt or persistent changes in your voice, such as sudden hoarseness lasting more than a few weeks, it’s a good idea to consult an ear, nose, and throat doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
3. Shrinking with Age: Why We Lose Height
One of the more visible signs of aging is a loss of height. Most people start to get shorter around the age of 40, with men losing an average of one inch by age 70 and women losing closer to two inches. After 80, the loss of height tends to continue, with research suggesting an additional inch or more. According to Ardeshir Hashmi, section chief of the Center for Geriatric Medicine at Cleveland Clinic, this shrinking is due to a combination of factors, including the loss of bone and cartilage in the spine, weakening of the muscles that support the spine, and even the flattening of the arches in our feet. While some degree of height loss is inevitable, staying physically active, doing weight-bearing exercises, and maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help slow it down. If you notice a significant loss of height in a short period, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor, as it could be a sign of osteoporosis or another condition.
4. Migraines May Decrease with Age
For many people, especially women, migraines can be a debilitating part of life. However, there is some good news for those who suffer from these intense headaches: they often become less frequent and less severe with age. Women are two to three times more likely to experience migraines than men, and their episodes are typically more intense and longer-lasting. But according to Seniha Nur Ozudogru, a neurologist at Penn Medicine, most women report that their migraines improve after menopause, with reduced frequency, severity, and even a complete disappearance of attacks. As women age, they may also experience a change in symptoms, with migraines becoming less debilitating and more manageable. While migraines can still be a challenge, many people find that they become easier to handle as they get older.
5. Embracing the Changes: A New Perspective on Aging
While the changes that come with aging can be frustrating or even disconcerting at times, they are also a natural part of life. Taking a "wabi-sabi" approach—embracing the imperfections and impermanence of life—can help us find peace with these changes. Whether it’s a slightly crooked smile, a deeper or raspier voice, or even a loss of height, these shifts are a reminder that we are all constantly evolving. Many people find that these changes, while unexpected, can even become a part of their unique identity, offering a new perspective or persona to embrace. It’s never too late to adopt a new sense of self, and aging presents us with the opportunity to find beauty in the imperfect.
6. Understanding the Lasting Effects of Covid-19
In recent years, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought new attention to the ways in which our bodies can change and recover from illness. While many people recover fully from Covid-19, scientists are beginning to understand how the virus can lead to long-term, sometimes invisible changes in various parts of the body. Even after the infection has passed, Covid-19 can have lasting effects on the body, from the nervous system to the cardiovascular system. This ongoing research helps us better understand how to manage and recover from the virus, as well as how to support those who are experiencing long-term symptoms. As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, staying informed and taking care of our health is more important than ever.
