The Isley Brothers captured a timeless sentiment in their 1966 Motown classic “This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You),” highlighting the connection between aging and the frailty of the heart.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of mortality and disability in the United States. Current statistics reveal that approximately 6 percent of Americans aged 45 to 64 are living with this condition, with the prevalence climbing to over 18 percent for those aged 65 and older, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As we age, our hearts undergo significant physiological changes. Dr. John Dodson, director of the geriatric cardiology program at NYU Langone Health, notes, “The heart becomes more rigid as we grow older. It has a harder time filling with blood, and the muscles are less able to relax effectively.”

The aging process also impacts blood vessels, causing them to stiffen and potentially leading to hypertension. Furthermore, the nerve fibers responsible for sending electrical signals to the heart are affected. Other bodily systems that contribute to heart health are also influenced by age, with Dr. Dodson emphasizing that “after age 75, the effects become more pronounced.”

Nevertheless, advancements in treatments for various cardiovascular issues have significantly contributed to a decline in both heart attacks and cardiac-related fatalities. Dr. Karen Alexander, who specializes in geriatric cardiology at Duke University, remarks, “The field of cardiology has experienced remarkable progress through enhanced research and drug development. Our current medications are more effective than ever, and our understanding of their use has vastly improved.”

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