[Age-related dynamics of heart rate variability indicators in the population of Northerners young men, mature age and elderly men.].

Heart rate variability is a measure of autonomic nervous system that regulates cardiac function. It is also a potential tool for quantifying its physiological changes under the age aspect. The research examined age characteristics and differences in autonomic control of cardiovascular system based on heart rate variability indicators in individuals of different ages (young men, mature age men, and the elderly men). We studied the influence of age on indicators of autonomic heart function in temporal and frequency sections of heart rate variability. For the purpose, one hundred ninety-two young male subjects, one hundred and nine men of working age, and fifty-six healthy elderly men were voluntary involved in the survey. The main characteristics of heart rate variability at rest (sitting position) were analyzed in all subjects using the Varikard device. The results showed a decrease in autonomic functions with subjective growing older, which was associated with lower activity of parasympathetic link of autonomic nervous system that shifted the sympathovagal balance to a relative state of sympathetic activity. The group of elderly men exhibited average heart rate values which were similar to those of mature age men but yet, elderly subjects tended to demonstrate reduced activity of parasympathetic link of autonomic nervous system. Our study has contributed to research data available in terms of predominance of sympathetic nervous system and reduction in vagus nerve tone in autonomic control of cardiovascular system as an inevitable component of aging process.