Your immune system is generally stronger when you are younger than 60 years old, assuming you are in good health and maintain healthy habits.
As we age, a natural decline in immune function, known as immunosenescence, occurs. This means the immune system's ability to effectively fight off infections and diseases diminishes over time. Several factors contribute to this decline:
- Reduced production of immune cells: The body produces fewer T cells and B cells, which are crucial for recognizing and eliminating pathogens.
- Decreased function of immune cells: The existing immune cells may not function as efficiently as they did when younger. They might be slower to respond to threats or less effective at destroying infected cells.
- Increased inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation, often associated with aging, can impair immune function.
Therefore, while the immune system is generally quite robust in early adulthood, its peak functionality typically occurs before age 60. After this point, its strength gradually decreases, making older adults more susceptible to infections and less responsive to vaccines. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, can influence the rate of this decline.
