Changes to the vascular system are inevitable as we age. Blood vessels gradually lose elasticity, circulation becomes less efficient, and the risk of vascular disease increases. While ageing itself is not a disease, it has a significant influence on vascular health and plays a central role in the development of both arterial and venous disorders.
Therefore, understanding how the vascular system changes over time and what should be monitored is essential for maintaining mobility, independence, and an overall good quality of life.
How the Vascular System Changes With Age
With increasing age, blood vessels undergo structural and functional changes. Arterial walls tend to stiffen, reducing their ability to adapt to fluctuations in blood pressure and blood flow. This can place additional strain on the cardiovascular system and impair oxygen delivery to tissues. At the same time, venous function may decline. Venous valves, particularly in the legs, can weaken over time, making it harder for blood to return to the heart against gravity. Consequently, blood may pool in the lower extremities, resulting in swelling, discomfort, and visible changes to the veins.
These age-related changes occur gradually and often without any noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Common vascular conditions associated with aging
Several vascular conditions become more prevalent with age. These include:
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the legs due to narrowed arteries
- Chronic venous disease: Impaired venous return, causing swelling, heaviness, and skin changes
- Increased arterial stiffness: This contributes to hypertension and cardiovascular strain.
- Delayed wound healing: This is especially common in the lower extremities.
As symptoms may develop slowly or be attributed to ‘normal ageing’, vascular disease is often underdiagnosed in older adults.
Why Symptoms Are Often Overlooked
Fatigue, leg discomfort and reduced walking distance are commonly accepted as part of ageing. However, these symptoms can also indicate underlying vascular impairment.
Many older patients unconsciously adapt their behaviour — walking less, avoiding stairs, and limiting physical activity — which can mask early warning signs. Without a targeted evaluation, vascular disease may remain undetected until complications arise.
Therefore, distinguishing between age-related discomfort and clinically relevant vascular changes is critical.
What Should Be Monitored as We Age
Regular monitoring of vascular health becomes increasingly important with age, particularly for individuals with additional risk factors, such as diabetes, hypertension, a smoking history, or reduced mobility.
Key aspects to monitor include:
- Blood flow and circulation in the lower extremities
- Signs of arterial narrowing or reduced perfusion
- Venous function and valve competence
- Changes in skin condition or wound healing
Objective, non-invasive vascular assessments can help to identify early changes before they significantly impact daily life.
The Role of Preventive Vascular Assessment
A preventive vascular assessment enables the early detection of issues, informs clinical decision-making and allows for timely intervention. Rather than reacting to advanced disease, clinicians can monitor its progression, adjust their treatment strategies, and promote long-term vascular health.
Integrating vascular evaluation into routine care for ageing populations can lead to better outcomes, fewer complications, and an improved quality of life.
Conclusion
Although ageing brings natural changes to the vascular system, these changes should not be ignored. Understanding how vascular health evolves over time and knowing what to monitor is essential for the early detection and effective management of vascular disease.
With awareness, regular assessment and modern diagnostic approaches, it is possible to actively support vascular health well into older age, helping individuals to remain mobile, independent and healthy for longer.
References:
¹ Maier et al. (2023). Aging and Vascular Disease: A Multidisciplinary Overview. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10488447/
² Climie et al. (2023). Vascular ageing: moving from bench towards bedside. https://academic.oup.com/eurjpc/article/30/11/1101/7026201?login=true
