What is a common symptom of cardiovascular disease in the elderly?

A common symptom of cardiovascular disease in the elderly is a reduced ability to engage in physical activity. This occurs because cardiovascular disease can affect the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest pain during exertion. As a result, many elderly individuals may find that they can no longer participate in physical activities they once enjoyed, or they may tire more easily when performing everyday tasks.

Increased appetite is not typically associated with cardiovascular disease; rather, some individuals might experience a decreased appetite due to related factors such as side effects from medications or changes in metabolic function that often accompany aging and illness. Enhanced endurance would be contrary to the effects of cardiovascular disease, as this condition generally diminishes physical stamina. Regular sleep patterns are also less likely to be directly influenced by cardiovascular disease, leading to variability in sleep quality and patterns due to stress, pain, and other health factors that could accompany heart issues.