What is organ reserve?

Organ reserve refers to the capacity of organs to handle stress through unused functioning ability. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of aging and health, as it underscores how organs can perform beyond their baseline functioning when the body experiences stressors such as illness, injury, or increased physical demands.

Over time, as individuals age or face chronic health issues, their organ reserve can diminish, which affects how well they respond to stress. For instance, a younger individual typically has a greater organ reserve, allowing their body to adapt more effectively to challenges. Conversely, as organ reserve decreases with age or disease, individuals may find that their organs cannot compensate as well when faced with stress, leading to greater vulnerability and health complications.

This understanding is crucial in fields like gerontology and rehabilitation, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to preserve organ function and reserve.