What is a common cardiovascular change associated with aging?

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Changes in heart rhythm are a well-documented cardiovascular change associated with aging. As individuals grow older, the electrical conduction system of the heart can become less efficient. This can lead to alterations in heart rhythm, such as the development of arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats. These changes may occur due to various factors including structural modifications in the heart tissue, the accumulation of fibrous tissue, or other age-related changes that affect the heart's ability to maintain a consistent rhythm.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect common cardiovascular aging processes. While it is true that older adults may experience variations in blood pressure, a decrease is not universally applicable, as some individuals may actually experience increased blood pressure due to hypertension. Increased heart size may occur, but typically this is in response to conditions such as hypertension rather than a typical aging change. Lastly, improved stamina is generally not a characteristic of aging; instead, many older adults experience a decrease in physical endurance and overall exercise capacity. Therefore, changes in heart rhythm is the most representative cardiovascular change associated with the aging process.

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