Aging and its effect on cognitive ability
Typically, our cognitive skills start to deteriorate in our 30s. With aging, retaining information, finding words, focusing, problem-solving, and juggling multiple tasks become increasingly challenging. As we advance in years, this drop in mental capacity may eventually result in dementia.
The effects of aging on physical ability
Physical performance decreases with age due to loss of muscle mass and strength, an increase in fat tissue, decreased nerve conductivity leading to less responsive muscles, and decreased lung capacity and heart function making it harder to maintain an active lifestyle and exercise.
Signs of aging
1. Oxygen deficiency in bodily tissues
Atherosclerosis, a condition in which arteries narrow, reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to important organs.
2. Disruptions in mitochondrial function
Mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of our cells, become less effective and decrease in quantity with aging.
3. Depletion of stem cells
Stem cells have the ability to repair any damage in our bodies. However, with aging, the quantity of stem cells decreases and their efficacy in regenerating damaged tissue also decreases.
4. Short telomeres
As we age, our DNA cells continuously divide. Telomeres, which act as protective caps on the end of each DNA strand, gradually shorten with time. When telomeres become too short, the cell can no longer divide, leading to senescent cells—a key contributor to aging.