Topic 1: Theories of ageing

There are two perspectives where we can examine theories of aging which are programmed
aging theories and “wear-and-tear” theories.
Programmed aging includes two theories which are Hayflick’s theory of limited cell replication
and molecular clock theory. Hayflick suggested that a genetic code is contained in all cells that
direct them to divide a specific number of times during their life span (Brown, 2019, p. 453).
Aside from disease or accident, after cells divide from their programmed limit, they begin to die.
This theory was used by Hayflick to calculate the potential human life span to be around 110-120
years. Secondly, molecular clock theory uses telomeres (cap the ends of chromosomes) to mark
time in which it becomes shorter after each cell division. Chromosomes stop replicating once
telomeres are eventually gone which may produce signals of aging since cells cannot be formed
(Brown, 2019, p. 453).

Wear-and-tear theories include the free-radical or oxidative stress theory and rate-of-living
theory. The accumulation of waste byproducts and damaged cells leads to declining aging and
function according to wear-and-tear theories. Firstly, oxidative stress theory proposes that one
cause of aging is oxidative stress due to the buildup of reactive oxygen compounds (Brown,
2019, p. 453-454). Rate-of-living theory suggests that faster aging results from “faster” living.
For instance, an individual with greater energy expenditure and higher metabolic rate will lead to
a greater turnover of all body tissues (Brown, 2019, p. 454).

There are various physiological changes that occur with aging which are possible to minimize
the effects. Mobility and decrease in lean body mass can be associated with the perspective of
programmed aging since these can affect your metabolic rate and energy expenditure which in
return can result in a longer or shorter life. We can minimize the effects of mobility issues and
decrease in lean body mass through physical activity. Furthermore, the sense of taste and smell
usually starts to decline at the age of 60. Sense of smell can be affected by smoking and upper
respiratory tract infections which aligns with the oxidative stress theory. Sense of taste is usually
affected by disease and so there is not a clear theory that aligns with a sense of taste. Problems
with both senses can be minimized through the use of medications or quitting smoking.
Moreover, vision aligns with the oxidative stress theory as our body needs antioxidants,
specifically we need beta-carotene to keep our eyes healthy. We can improve our vision as we
age by consuming adequate vitamin A and foods rich in beta-carotene. Additionally, tooth loss is
associated with mortality, disability, and poor nutritional status in old age (Brown, 2019, p. 456).
There is not a clear indication of which theory impacts this physiological change however, we
can minimize the effects of tooth loss with a healthy diet and proper oral care from the dentist
and brushing and flossing daily. Lastly, gastrointestinal problems occur as we age. There is also
not a clear indication of which theory impacts this physiological change however, we can
minimize the effects by a high-fiber diet and avoiding saturated and trans-fat intake.

References:
Brown, J. E. (2019). Nutrition through the life cycle. Brooks/Cole.
Dua, S. (2022, March). Module 11: Nutrition and the elderly. Reading.