Lung function in the elderly

Abstract

Data are presented on the FEV1 and forced vital capacity (FVC) of elderly people living at home. These were derived from a survey of 418 persons over the age of 70 years and thus provide standards for the assessment of elderly persons. There was a decline in FEV1 and FVC cross sectionally with age and a continued adverse effect of smoking. A history of cough and phlegm was strongly related to impairment of lung function.