Aging

Aging, from a medical perspective, refers to the complex process of cellular and molecular changes that occur in organisms over time, leading to a gradual decline in physiological function, increased susceptibility to diseases, and eventually death. It is characterized by a progressive loss of tissue and organ function due to various factors, including DNA damage, oxidative stress, telomere shortening, and a decline in regenerative capacities. These biological mechanisms contribute to the aging phenotype, which includes a diminishing ability to respond to stress, increasing homeostatic imbalance, and the risk of age-related pathologies such as neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

Clinically, aging manifests through various signs and symptoms, like the loss of skin elasticity, decreased muscle mass and bone density, reduced cognitive function, and impaired vision and hearing. Age-related changes also affect the immune system, leading to immunosenescence, which diminishes the body's ability to combat infections and increases the risk of autoimmune diseases. The rate and experience of aging are influenced by genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. Understanding aging from a medical standpoint is paramount for developing interventions aimed at improving quality of life and health span in the elderly population.