Aging changes in the senses

Abstract

BACKGROUND. The aging of the visual organ and other sensory systems is a key medical and social problem, as it leads to a decrease in quality of life, functional dependence and an increased burden of disease. OBJECTIVE. Cataracts develop due to the accumulation of oxidative damage to the lens and disruptions in its biochemical composition. Age-related macular degeneration is associated with the accumulation of drusen, oxyinflammation, and immune mechanisms leading to pigment epithelial atrophy. Glaucomatous neurodegeneration is caused by optic nerve damage, excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. Diabetic retinopathy is characterized by vascular and inflammatory changes, exacerbated by accelerated cellular aging. Dry eye syndrome is associated with dysfunction of the lacrimal and meibomian glands, as well as age-related decline in antioxidant defenses. The mechanisms of presbycusis and presbynasalis are also discussed. CONCLUSION. Aging of sensory systems is a multifactorial process that forms a wide range of age-associated diseases. A comprehensive combination of clinical, molecular, and computational approaches opens new possibilities for personalized diagnostics, early detection, and the development of targeted anti-aging strategies aimed at preserving visual function and improving quality of life in the elderly population.