What Processes Cause Aging?

I found the reading about the various process that cause aging to be interesting but had a hard time understanding some of the finer details and more complex explanations. I do find it interesting that oxidation has been found to be a possible contributor to aging in humans. It seems strange that humans need oxygen in order to sustain life but too much oxygen over time also causes us to age. I suppose this could be a system that evolved with time to ensure that all humans eventually age and die.

Along with the theory about oxidation I learned that some cells (such as the brain and muscles) are unable to be replaced after birth, even when damaged. In my opinion, this helps explain why aging is typically defined in terms of brain and muscle functionality as age allows more damage to occur and accumulate. I look forward to hearing what everyone else has to say about the processes mentioned in the reading as well as hopefully gaining a better understanding of some of the biological processes discussed (especially about the glucose damage).

Why do we age?

I think answering the question of why we age is extremely complex, as demonstrated by the 300+ theories that are already in existence. The article "Why Does Aging Happen" presented two theories that I had not heard of before. The first theory regarding the good of the species was interesting in that some of the points made about the "survival of the fittest" and evolution seem applicable to aging and make sense when viewing only specific aspects of aging. While I can believe that evolution and the desire to adapt to a specific environment is important, if not vital, to the long term survivial of a species, I find it near impossible to believe that organisms age prematurely simply to benefit the rest of the population.

I believe the second theory about limited cell division is more accurate with regards to aging. While I do not have a background in biology or genetics, it makes sense to me that if our cells cease to divide and repair themselves, then our organs or body functions will also cease to operate as well, thus causing us to age. I still believe that there are other factors that effect aging however, such as nutrition, exercise, social stability and support, and mental activity. I am looking forward to discovering more about these variables as the class progresses.

My Interest in Healthy Aging

Hi everyone! My name is Kelsey and I am a sophomore in Civil Engineering. I am taking this honors seminar because it is a topic that interests me and hopefully will cover information I would not be able to learn elsewhere. My current definition of healthy development and aging involves a healthy diet and exercise plan, as well as de-stressing activities. I hope to learn about the components of healthy aging in order to apply the knowledge to my everyday life. I am especially interested in nutrition, genetics, and psychological factors.