Biology Of Aging

Aging is the process of gradual maturation. Changes that occur with aging can be classified as the result of aging itself (normal age-related changes) and changes that result from disease, lifestyle, and exposures, which may lead to reduced quality of life, independence, the onset of chronic disease and death.

Within the category of normal aging, a distinction can be made between usual aging, in which extrinsic factors heighten the effects of aging alone, and successful aging, in which extrinsic factors play a neutral or positive role. Successful aging refers to three main components: low probability of disease and disease-related disability, high cognitive and functional capacity, and active engagement with life (Rowe & Kahn, 1987, 1997).