Individuals all age differently, so you may see an older adult looking their age while another person could look a decade younger than their actual age. If you’re wondering why this is so, read on to learn about the four ageotypes and how various aging types attribute to one’s aging process.
What Are Ageotypes?
Aging is something that happens to everyone, but little is understood about it. How we can slow or stop memory loss, lean muscle loss, wrinkles, and other changes that come inevitably with age is still not well known. However, one thing we do know today is the four distinct aging categories. Based on biological samples collected over the course of two years, scientists have identified aging categories or ”ageotypes” – immune, nephrotic (kidney), hepatic (liver), and metabolic. Researchers have determined that all of us generally age along these biological pathways in the body.
More About Ageotypes
The study that captured a comprehensive view of the aging process and its main biological pathways led to interesting insights. For example, those who are metabolic agers may have elevated levels of hemoglobin A1c, which means they accrue more sugar in their blood. As this indicates their bodies metabolize glucose less efficiently, individuals with the metabolic aging type may have a higher risk of developing conditions like diabetes.
On the other hand, those with an immune ageotype are more prone to immune-related diseases or tend to generate higher levels of inflammatory markers with age. Things to note are that ageotypes are not mutually exclusive – some people fit squarely in one category, while others may meet the criteria for all four. It just depends on how one’s biological systems hold up as they age. More time and research could also lead to the discovery of a lot more than just four categories.
How Understanding Ageotypes Can Help to Slow Aging
Upon monitoring clear patterns, ways, and rates individuals experience aging on a molecular level, the research has shown it is possible to change the way you age by changing your lifestyle as well as consuming targeted medicine to decelerate the aging process, but more research is needed on this. As aging research continues to be a popular area of interest, it is also best for us to do our best in reducing our risks for age-related diseases. Ways you can do this include:
- Getting ample sleep – Being sleep deprived is associated with shorter life spans and poorer overall health.
- Exercising – Keeping your body active for at least 15 minutes a day can improve your health emotionally on top of physically, leading to optimal overall health.
- Eating well – It is no surprise that added saturated fat, salt, and sugar wreak havoc on one’s health as it elevates one’s risk of diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. It is recommended to always read your labels when buying packaged foods, so you can limit foods with excess sodium or sugar.
Why Choose Discovery Village At Spring Mill?
At Discovery Village At Spring Mill, we offer a wide array of recreational activities designed to mentally, physically, and socially stimulate your loved one’s minds. You can expect amenities of the highest quality, as well as a warm and welcoming community when you stay with us.
If you have any inquiries about our range of services, do not hesitate to contact us today.
