Cardiac Aging

Cardiac aging involves gradual changes in heart structure, cellular composition, and functional performance. Aging hearts exhibit increased myocardial stiffness, reduced diastolic relaxation, altered electrical conduction, and diminished stress responsiveness. Cardiomyocytes accumulate molecular damage, show reduced mitochondrial efficiency, and possess limited regenerative capacity. Age related changes in calcium handling impair contractile coordination and contribute to arrhythmia susceptibility. Cardiac aging reduces cardiac reserve, limiting the ability to respond to physiological stress such as exercise or illness. Interaction between cardiac aging and vascular aging further compromises cardiovascular performance. These changes increase vulnerability to heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and reduced endurance. Understanding cardiac aging supports strategies to preserve cardiac function, maintain circulatory efficiency, and promote longevity.