Different theories have been proposed to explain the aging process. The Programmed Theory state that we humans age due to a programmed damage.[i] The process is unavoidable and happens to everyone. It follows a specific timetable during which changes occur in cell maintenance and defence.

Another aging theory is the Damage Theory that suggests environmental damage as the cause of aging. This theory states that aging is the cumulative negative effects of the environment.[ii]

The above theories point to the fact that aging is a natural process. The stigma attached to aging is therefore unreasonable. The aged persons are not to be blamed for their condition.

Apart from the physical theories of aging, there are psychological theories of aging as well. The Activity Theory of aging suggests that ageing is an ongoing social activity. This theory states that aging is a psychosocial process linked with various roles such as familial role, community role, work role, volunteer role, etc. As long as the person substitute one role after another, the positive self of the person remains. The moment a person ceases to play any role, the negative sense of aging comes into play. [iii]

Senior individuals do not lose all cognitive abilities with age. However, some neurological decline does occur as per an article published by the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Emory University, USA.[iv] According to the article, the neurological decline in older individuals occur in the domains of memory, language, attention, ‘fluid’ intelligence or the ability to think logically, problem-solving, and processing speed. The report has also suggested that human-centered strategies such as keeping mentally stimulated, maintaining good health, and stress reduction can help promote health among senior individuals.

[i] Jin, K. (2010). ‘Modern Biological Theories of Aging‘. Journal of Aging and Disease. pp. 72-74.

[ii] Magalhaes, J.P. (2014). Damage-Based Theories of Aging.

[iii]  Loue, S.J. & Sajatovic, M. (eds) (2008). Encyclopedia of Aging and Public Health. Springer, Boston.

[iv]  Emory University. (2017). Cognitive Skills and Normal Aging.