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- Studies have been done in animals, such as monkeys, mice, chimpanzees, & fruit flies, that show there is a possibility for people to live longer.
- These studies were done by reducing the animal species diet.
- Most scientists believe that aging is associated with cellular level; however, not all scientists think that aging involves one gene. Many believe that aging is the result of “multiple cellular pathways” where there is no one factor acting out.
- Most research that is done is not based on how to prevent aging; however, it is done on how to prevent disease, increase health, etc.
- Getting enough nutrients is more problematic for the aged than for younger adults primarily because the senses of taste and smell diminish with age.
- Poverty, living alone, and dental problems are external factors that make getting enough nutrients more difficult for some older adults.
- Life expectancy in Sweden is high; where as life expectancy in Russia and Africa are low.
- A centenarian is someone still alive after his or her 100th birthday.
- Four characteristics of long-lived people follow:
• Diet is moderate.
• Work continues throughout life.
• Family & community are important.
• Exercise & relaxation are part of the daily routine.
Calorie requirements decrease with age, where as vitamin and mineral intake increase with age.
Drugs, alcohol, and dehydration also play an important role in nutrition for the elderly.
The general public says they want to live longer; however, nobody wants to sacrifice anything to be able to do so.
Exercise is needed more among the elderly but they do it less. Continuous rhythmic movements should be done for exercise not sudden, strenuous effort exercises.
Fewer than 1 percent of people over the age 50 currently are on a diet or exercise.
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