Chapter 23: Endocrine Function & Aging

Endocrine Function & Aging details the "ensemble view" of aging, which characterizes the transition into menopause, andropause, adrenopause, and somatopause as a result of decreased production in estrogen, testosterone, adrenal hormones like DHEA, and growth factors. These shifts lead to an increased molecular disorderliness within the neuroendocrine system, disrupting the delicate feedback loops between the brain and peripheral glands that regulate metabolism, mood, and organ function. A significant portion of the material is dedicated to the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes continuum, emphasizing how abdominal obesity and insulin resistance serve as critical precursors to chronic illness. The nursing process is meticulously applied to these conditions, focusing on assessment, therapeutic lifestyle modifications, and essential patient education—particularly regarding diabetic foot care and the prevention of vascular complications. The text also provides a comparative analysis of thyroid disorders, noting how hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism often present with subtle or atypical symptoms in older individuals compared to younger adults. Furthermore, the chapter investigates the pathogenesis of primary osteoporosis, the utility of bone density scanning, and the role of mineral supplementation and weight-bearing exercise in maintaining skeletal integrity. Finally, it addresses the often-overlooked area of sexual health, discussing the physiological drivers of dysfunction in both men and women and exploring the medical and psychological interventions available to support vitality and well-being in later life.