As we age, there are plenty of visible, physical changes that occur, from wrinkles and gray hairs to age spots and sagging skin. However, some of the most telling signs of aging can be subtle and unexpected.

Here are 10 of the most surprising ways your body can show your age:.

1. Your ears and nose get bigger.

Yes, you read that correctly. As we age, our cartilage continues to grow, causing our ears and noses to lengthen and widen.

This effect can be compounded by years of sun damage, which can cause the skin to thicken and affect the size and shape of these features.

2. Your feet change shape.

As we age, the ligaments and tendons in our feet can lose elasticity, causing our arches to flatten and our feet to widen. This can lead to changes in shoe size and shape, and can also contribute to balance problems and falls.

3. Your posture shifts.

Years of hunching over a desk or computer can take a toll on your posture, but age can also play a role. As we get older, our spines can become compressed and lose some of their natural curvature, causing us to hunch forward or slouch.

4. Your hands reveal your age.

Like our faces, our hands are often exposed to the elements and can show signs of aging earlier than other parts of the body. Age spots, thinning skin, and visible veins and tendons can all contribute to a more aged appearance.

5. Your voice changes.

You may not think of your voice as a body part, but it can reveal a lot about your age. Over time, the muscles and tissues in your throat and vocal cords can weaken, causing changes in pitch and tone.

6. Your muscles shrink.

Unfortunately, it’s not just your skin that sags as you age. Muscles can also shrink and weaken, making it harder to perform everyday activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries.

7. Your teeth shift.

If you’ve ever had braces, you know how important it is to keep teeth aligned. But as we age, our teeth can shift and move, causing gaps or overlapping. This can be due to factors like gum disease, injury, or the natural aging process.

8. Your vision changes.

Most people need reading glasses at some point in their life, but age can also lead to other vision changes.

Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are all more common in older adults, and can lead to blurry vision, reduced color perception, or even blindness.

9. Your metabolism slows.

As we age, our bodies become less efficient at processing food and burning calories. This can lead to weight gain, especially around the midsection, and can increase the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

10. Your bones thin.

Osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones, is a common condition among older adults, especially women. Weaker bones can lead to fractures, decreased height, and chronic pain.

While many of these changes are a normal part of the aging process, there are steps you can take to maintain your health and vitality as you age.

Eating a healthy diet, staying active, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups can all help you feel your best at any age.