What generally decreases as a person matures due to the aging process?

The aging process is characterized by various physical changes that typically occur as individuals transition through different life stages. In this context, aerobic capacity generally refers to the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense exercise, often measured by VO2 max. As people age, aerobic capacity tends to decrease due to several factors, including a decline in cardiovascular efficiency, changes in muscle mass, and overall physical activity levels. This decline can lead to reduced endurance and increased fatigue during physical activity.

While muscle strength, bone density, and joint flexibility can also change with age, aerobic capacity is particularly impacted by cardiovascular health, which is influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet, activity level, and overall health management. This makes a decline in aerobic capacity a common experience among aging individuals.