Introduction to Ageing

Vocabulary flashcards covering the introductory concepts of growth, development, and ageing, including biological definitions, classification models, and module assessment details.

Senescence

The biological stage of ageing following development and maturity where there is a decline in the percentage of function over the remainder of the life span.

Heterogeneity in ageing

The concept that ageing varies across different species, individual organisms, and specific organ systems.

Intrinsic Ageing

Internal factors that contribute to the biological changes and processes of ageing.

Extrinsic Ageing

External challenges or environmental factors that contribute to the changes observed during the ageing process.

Peak Thymus Mass

An example of organ system heterogeneity, where this tissue reaches its peak mass at approximately $14$ years of age.

Peak Bone Mass

An example of organ system heterogeneity, where this tissue reaches its peak mass at approximately $40$ years of age.

Pathological ageing

Ageing processes that are associated with or complicated by disease, as opposed to "normal" ageing.

Usual Ageing

A classification by Rowe and Khan (1997) describing individuals who are non-pathologic but remain at high risk for disease and disability.

Successful Ageing

A classification by Rowe and Khan (1997) characterized by a low probability of disease and disability, high cognitive and physical functional capacity, and active engagement with life.

Frailty

A state resulting from declines in multiple systems, characterized by impaired homeostatic reserve, increased vulnerability to ill health, and a reduced capacity for recovery.

Section A (Module Exam)

The critical appraisal portion of the exam, accounting for $50\%$ of the exam marks.

Section B (Module Exam)

The essay portion of the exam, worth $30\%$ of the exam marks, requiring students to answer one out of two provided choices.

Section C (Module Exam)

The short answer portion of the exam, worth $20\%$ of the exam marks, where both provided questions must be answered.

Electronic voting systems

A tool used in lectures (e.g., vevox) to provide audience engagement and immediate feedback to students.

McDonald RB (2012)

The author and year of the core module text titled "Biology of Aging" published by Garland Science.