Which pulmonary parameter does not change with aging?

Total lung capacity is a measure of the maximum amount of air the lungs can hold. It is the sum of vital capacity and residual volume. While other pulmonary parameters like vital capacity, strength of respiratory muscles, and elastic recoil of the lungs may decline with age due to factors such as loss of elasticity and reduced muscle strength, total lung capacity tends to remain relatively stable throughout the aging process. This stability occurs because, although vital capacity can decrease, the residual volume typically increases to compensate, balancing out the overall total lung capacity.

Understanding this aspect of pulmonary function is crucial, especially in geriatric physical therapy, as it allows clinicians to better assess and intervene in the respiratory health of older adults.