Effects of aging on psychological and physiological function

Differences in tree test, GHQ (General Health Questionnaire), aspiration task, and cardiovascular parameters

Abstract

Blood pressure and heart rate were assessed in 20 old (65-82), 20 middle (35-51), and 50 young (20-26) people during an aspiration performance task, and the GHQ and tree test were given preceding the aspiration task. More older than younger subjects exhibited systolic and diastolic blood pressure increases during the task; heart rate was faster in the older subjects. While there were no GHQ differences among the groups, the trunk length measured from ground to the lowest branch compared to the total height of tree for older subjects was larger than that of younger subjects. Behavioral measures reflecting aspiration levels were discussed in relation to aging.