TOLL FREE:
1-866-611-2665
Due to its considerable reserve capacity, the gastrointestinal system is better insulated from the effects of aging than other organ systems in the body. Changes to the gastrointestinal system generally consist of a decrease or slowing of functions and an increased risk of digestive tract disorders.
The gastrointestinal system extends from the mouth to the anus and includes the throat, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients, absorbing the nutrients into the bloodstream, and eliminating waste from the body.
It remains relatively stable until approximately age 65, according to a 2010 study in Italy, after which age-related changes begin to have an effect. For example, you might begin to notice the following changes to the different parts of the gastrointestinal system:
From age 65 on, gastrointestinal symptoms can be quite common and range from mild constipation or acid reflux to more serious conditions like infectious colitis or bowel ischemia. Older adults are also more likely to use medications, such as certain heart medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat chronic pain, that can increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
Risk of developing colon cancer or diverticulitis also increases with age. Diverticula are small sac-like out-pouchings of the colon lining that balloon through the outer colon wall, occurring most frequently in the lower section of the colon. Occurrence of diverticular disease rises sharply from 5% in those 40 or younger, to at least 50% in older adults aged 65 or older.
You can help keep your gastrointestinal system healthy and reduce the risk of digestive tract disorders by maintaining healthy dietary habits. For example, choose nutritious foods, follow a balanced diet, and limit dairy, red and processed meats, and refined sugars. Getting enough fibre is important to help avoid constipation, diarrhea, and diverticular disease, while Vitamin B12 and D, calcium, and iron supplements may be needed to meet daily recommendations.
Drinking lots of water, keeping physically active and getting enough sleep help maintain both overall and digestive health. It’s also important to speak to your health care practitioner regarding any concerning symptoms. To determine the health of your gastrointestinal system, your doctor may perform a physical exam or order lab tests and imaging to investigate the cause for symptoms.
Imaging could include an ultrasound of the various parts of the gastrointestinal system, MRI, or CT imaging of the colon, called virtual colonoscopy. For more information, please visit our services page.
Gastrointestinal Society (2020) “Aging Digestive Tract.” www.badgut.org. Accessed June 5, 2022.
Halter, J. B., et al (2017) “Chapter 90: Aging of the Gastrointestinal System.” Hazzard’s Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, 7th edition.
Rémond, D., et al (2015) “Understanding the gastrointestinal tract of the elderly to develop dietary solutions that prevent malnutrition.” Oncotarget. Jun 10; 6(16): 13858–98. Accessed June 5, 2022.
Ruiz, A. R. (2022) “Effects of Aging on the Digestive System.” Merck Manual Consumer Version. www.merckmanuals.com. Accessed June 5, 2022.
Our Refresh newsletter delivers the latest medical news, expert insights, and practical tips straight to your inbox, empowering you with knowledge to enhance patient care and stay informed.
By subscribing to our newsletter you understand and accept that we may share your information with vendors or other third parties who perform services on our behalf. The personal information collected may be stored, processed, and transferred to a country or region outside of Quebec.
Please read our privacy policy for more details.
At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.
We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:
MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight
Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health
Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care
Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life
But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.
We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.
But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.
At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.
WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.
Key Points:
Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.
Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.
Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).
Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.
Vision & Mission:
Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”
Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”
