Part VII. Your digestive system.

What’s happening:  Age-related structural changes in the large intestine can result in more constipation in older adults. Other contributing factors include a lack of exercise, not drinking enough fluids, and a low-fiber diet. Medications—such as diuretics and iron supplements—and certain medical conditions—such as diabetes—might contribute to constipation.

AGE-reversing (or, EGA) tips to prevent constipation:

• Maintain a healthy diet. Your diet should include high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consider a pescatarian or vegan diet (or simply limit high-fat meats and dairy products).  Avoid sugary drinks and sweets in general. Drink plenty of water and other fluids.

• Include physical activity in your daily routine. Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation.

Part VIII. Your bladder and urinary tract.

What’s happening:  Your bladder may become less elastic as you age, resulting in the need to urinate more often. Weakening of bladder muscles and pelvic floor muscles may make it difficult for you to empty your bladder completely or cause you to lose bladder control (urinary incontinence). In men, an enlarged or inflamed prostate can complicate matters, sometimes severely. Other factors that contribute to incontinence include being overweight, nerve damage from diabetes, certain medications, and caffeine or alcohol consumption.

EGA tips to promote bladder and urinary tract health:

• Maintain a healthy weight. If you’re overweight, lose excess pounds.

• Don’t smoke. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, ask your doctor to help you quit.

• Do Kegel exercises. To exercise your pelvic floor muscles, try Kegel exercises.Work up to doing the exercise 10 to 15 times in a row, at least three times a day.

• Avoid bladder irritants. Caffeine, acidic foods, alcohol, and carbonated beverages can make incontinence worse.

• Avoid constipation. Eat more fiber and exercise regularly to avoid constipation, which can worsen incontinence. 

Part IX. Your eyes and ears.

What’s happening:  With age, you might have difficulty focusing on objects that are close up. You might become more sensitive to glare and have trouble adapting to different levels of light. Aging also can affect your eye’s lens, causing clouded vision (cataracts). Your hearing also might diminish. You might have difficulty hearing high frequencies or following a conversation in a crowded room.

EGA tips to promote eye and ear health:

• Schedule regular checkups. Follow your doctor’s advice about glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, and other corrective devices.

• Take precautions. When outdoors (especially when it is sunny), wear sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat, and use earplugs when you’re around loud noises.

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Please read our other blogs that show you how to put your AGE in reverse, or EGA:

Blog I: Introduction, Your Skin, Your Hair

Blog II: Your Heart, Your Bones/Joints/Muscles, and Your Memory