While aging is a natural part of life, the impact of stress on the aging process cannot be underestimated. Living in a constant state of stress can accelerate the aging process, causing individuals to look and feel older than their actual age.
“All of us go through the aging process. In fact, science believes that aging starts since fertilization, and it does not start at 60 alone. It started since the first division of the product called ‘zygote,'” explained Dr. Eduardo Rommel Poblete, head of the Geriatric Center of the St. Luke’s Medical Center, during a health forum organized by the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) on Saturday.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that in 2020, there were already 1 billion people aged 60 years or over, and this number is projected to rise to 1.4 billion by 2030, representing 1 in every 6 people globally. Additionally, the WHO states that approximately 14 percent of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental disorder, based on the Global Health Estimates (GHE) in 2019.
Dr. Poblete highlighted that the perception that aging only starts at 60 is common because individuals begin to feel noticeable changes at this age. Walking at a slower pace and experiencing changes in voice are some of the physical manifestations that people may encounter.
“We talk about aging in two ways. When we say aging, it can be chronological, which means the process starts the day a person is born. However, we also have this biological aging, or the aging in the organ systems,” he added.
Scientific studies have shown that stress plays a significant role in biological aging. A study published in the journal Cell Metabolism in May 2023 revealed that exposure to stress can cause inflammation and damage to DNA cells.
Dr. Poblete emphasized that individuals who maintain a healthy lifestyle can potentially slow down the aging process. However, it is important to note that the goal of geriatric medicine is not to cure aging but to focus on functional improvement.
“In our discipline, our priority is not to cure aging. What we do is functional improvement. We aim to retain the functional capacity of an aged person as we cannot reverse their diseases, as most of them are not reversible. For example, we are trying to bring back their old habits like walking to the market,” explained Dr. Poblete when asked about the medical treatment of aging.
Furthermore, Dr. Poblete cautioned that diseases commonly associated with older people, such as osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart failure, can also affect younger individuals. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals of all ages to prioritize their overall well-being and take steps to manage stress effectively.
In conclusion, while aging is an inevitable part of life, the impact of stress on the aging process should not be overlooked. By understanding the biological mechanisms behind aging and implementing healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can potentially slow down the aging process and improve their overall well-being. It is essential for people of all ages to prioritize self-care and stress management to maintain a healthy and vibrant life.
Source: The Manila Times
