Age-related changes of the gastrointestinal tract

Abstract

Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are common in those aged 65 years or older, impairing their quality of life and potentially increasing morbidity and mortality risk. Unlike many organ systems, the luminal gastrointestinal tract does not undergo much natural degeneration. However, age-related anatomical and functional changes of the gastrointestinal tract might promote pathophysiology and explain some atypical presentations of gastrointestinal disorders in older adults. This Review summarises current knowledge of major anatomical and functional changes that occur in the gastrointestinal tract during ageing. These changes are often more evident in older adults who are frail or multimorbid, and frailty in older age might also influence the presentation, prognosis, and management of older patients with gastrointestinal disorders.