L2 Theories of aging and the normal aging process

Define what does aging in biological level refers to ?

Define what does aging in associated with other life transitions refers to ?

What means by old from the chronological perspective ?

What means by old from the biological perspective ?

What means by old from the behavioral perspective ?

What means by old from the sociocultural perspective ?

What means by old from the personal perspective ?

A valid theories of aging must meet which 3 broad criteria ?

What are the 3 categories, and their subtypes of aging theories respectively? (2+1+4)

1. Biological

   • Programmed theories

     • Programmed longevity

     • Endocrine theory

     • Autoimmune theory

   • Damage or error theories

2. Psychological

   • Erikson’s developmental theories

3. Sociological

   • Role theory

   • Activity theory

   • Disengagement theory

   • Continuity theory

What is the purpose of biological theories ? Also suggest the main ideas of this theory

• This theories attempt to explain why the physical changes of aging occur,

• It indicates that

  • Cells in the body become disorganized

  • Cells no longer replicate, and

  • Cellular death occurs (Senescent cell)

In biological theories of aging, explain why the process of cell senescence occur

There are external & internal damage from the environment damage the normal cells, leading to DNA damage —> senescent cell

• External: pollution, cigarette, ozone, pesticide, radiation

• Interna: Metabolism, procreation, inflammation

In biological theories of aging, what are the results of senescence ?

• Decreased physiological reserves

• Increased rate of cellular deterioration

• Increased vulnerability to disease

In biological theories of aging, describe the conditions of aging (4)

• The process is universal, all members of a species must experience the phenomenon

• The process is deleterious (harmful), or result in physiological decline

• The process is progressive

• The losses must be intrinsic

In biological theories of aging, suggest the example of diseases found to be associated with an accumulation of aging cells in the body (5)

• DM

• Hypertension

• Sarcopenia 肌肉少症

• Parkinson’s disease

• Chronic skin ulcers

What does programmed theories suggest about ?

Aging progresses according to a predetermined biological timetable

The process is governed by changes in gene expression that influence：

• Maintenance systems

• Repair mechanisms

• Defense response pathways

What does Programmed Longevity suggest about ?

P.17

What does damage or error theories suggest about ?

Focus on environmental factors that affect living organisms

Emphasize the accumulation of damage over time

Suggest aging results from continuous exposure to environmental stressors