Low testosterone levels in the aging male cause a set of changes that are similar across cultures and history. Some of the changes associated with men aging can be avoided with proper diet and exercise and others might be mitigated with testosterone replacement in men with a low testosterone level related to aging. Signs of physical aging might include:
- Fat is distributed differently and becomes more concentrated in the center of the body, around the abdominal organs.
- As the amount of fat increases, the amount of lean muscle mass decreases.
- Some organs lose mass, as well, including the liver and kidneys.
- Bones may also decrease in size, lose minerals and become more porous.
- Muscles and joints may become smaller and as they lose mass, height may also be lost..
- The loss of muscle in the legs may affect overall gait and balance.
Rembrandt Van Rijn, the famous dutch artist, painted several self-portraits throughout his life.
The animation below, using Rembrandt's earliest and last self-portraits, clearly illustrates many effects of aging on the human male.
Posted February 2004
Updated August 2009
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