In older adults, what is a common physiologic response to exercise?

In older adults, a common physiologic response to exercise is an increase in residual volume, which refers to the amount of air that remains in the lungs after a person exhales. As individuals age, there are changes in lung function and respiratory mechanics, including a decrease in lung elasticity and the efficiency of gas exchange. Exercise can lead to an increased residual volume as the lungs may become less compliant, making it harder to fully empty the lungs during exhalation.

Engaging in regular exercise, particularly aerobic activities, helps to improve overall lung function and may also shift the balance in lung volumes. Older adults who remain active tend to better preserve their lung health compared to sedentary peers. This understanding is important as it highlights the impact of physical activity on maintaining respiratory health in aging populations.

In contrast, a decrease in resting blood pressure is typically associated with conditioning over time rather than an immediate or common response to exercise in older adults. An increased reaction time would be more characteristic of a decline due to aging rather than a response to physical activity. Decreased heart rate might also occur with improved fitness levels over time, but many older adults experience increased heart rates in response to exercise due to altered cardiovascular responses.