What effect does aging typically have on the urinary system?

As individuals age, the urinary system undergoes various physiological changes, leading to specific impacts on kidney function and bladder capacity. Aging is typically associated with a decrease in kidney size and function; this is due to a decline in the number of functioning nephrons, the functional units of the kidney. This can result in decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is crucial for filtering blood and removing waste products.

Additionally, the bladder may also experience reduced capacity and altered muscle tone. As the bladder's elasticity diminishes over time, its ability to expand and hold urine decreases, contributing to more frequent urination and potentially leading to incontinence issues. These changes can significantly affect overall urinary function and health in aging individuals, making decreased bladder capacity and kidney function the accurate representation of the typical effects of aging on the urinary system.