There are many changes that occur with the oxygen delivery system during exercise with aging.  General physcial performance declines as one ages, but may be deterred with exercise training. 

Respiratory changes that interfere with exercise performance:

The lungs develop emphysematous changes, have a decreased recoil, and maximum breathing capacity is reduced.  There is chest wall constriction and weakness which causes a progressive fall in vital capacity. FEV1 decreases after the age of thirty around 30ml per year for nonsmokers, and double for smokers. Residual volume increases which increases total lung capacity which leads to barrel chest appearance.  There is a reduction of the # of cilia which leads to retention if secretions and potential infectious processes (ie: pneumonia).

Cardiovascular changes that interfere with exercise performance:

There is a decrease in maximum heart rate and an  increase in SVR.                                                                                                                                    Stroke volume decreases due to a decrease in exercise and increased afterload. 

Links for further investigation of the Effects of aging on exercise performance:

Helpful link for the elderly exerciser:

"Aging leads to a decrease in overall lung capacity and a decline in the ability of the lungs to move oxygen from the air into the bloodstream. This means less overall strength and endurance."

http://www.thedoctorwillseeyounow.com/articles/senior_living/oldrath_9/

"The effects of aging on the lungs are physiologically and anatomically similar to those that occur during the development of mild emphysema. Although aging affects ventilation, gas exchange, compliance, and other parameters of lung function as well as the defense mechanisms of the lungs, pure age-related changes do not lead to significant airway obstruction in the nonsmoker."

      ----http://www.aahf.info/sec_exercise/section/respiratory.htm----

A little something to brighten your day

because

sometime soon aging is coming your way!!