Table 4: Physiological changes in the elderly

(Crome 2003, Hilmer 2008, Litovitz et al. 1998)

• Decrease in total body mass
• Change in body composition (decreased proportion of body water, increased proportion of body fat)
• Small reduction in serum albumin
• Decreased liver blood flow, size and hepatic clearance
• Decreased renal function
• Diminished skin mucous membrane, gastrointestinal barriers,
• Diminished organ function,
• Depressed immune function
• Reduced olfactory and gustatory perception

Source: SCCS,  Opinion on the potential health risks posed by chemical consumer products resembling food and/or having child-appealing properties, (2011),
Annex III, p.40