Secondary Aging

Wrinkles, hair loss, gray hair, occasional forgetfulness, mild hearing loss and weaker eyesight are among the bodily changes most people will experience as they age. However, when they interfere with daily functioning, it may signal there is a problem. Osteoporosis, diabetes and Alzheimers can produce symptoms that may be accepted as a normal part of aging but in reality are preventable and/or treatable. These abnormal conditions are known collectively as secondary aging, and they are defined by the fact that they result from disease, abuse and disuse.

A healthy lifestyle is the best protection against secondary aging. Good nutrition, exercise, weight control, mental wellness, and stress reduction are all keys to well-being in the later years of life. Distinguishing between what normal and what is related to secondary is aging may lead to prevention and treatment versus living with illness.

For example, did you know:

• Stress has been linked to accelerating aging. A study published in December 2004 found that chronic, long-term emotional strain can increase the effects of aging at the cellular level. The Washington Post
• Mental stimulation may help prevent Alzheimers. Medline Plus
• Disturbed sleep and waking up tired every day are not a normal part of aging. National Institute of Health

Sources: American Federation for Aging Research; Mayo Clinic: Senior Health Center

For more information about the normal aging process and secondary aging, visit:

• AARP Health Guide
• Aging in Ohio
• The AGS Foundation for Healthy Aging
• Alliance for Aging Research
• American Academy of Family Physicians: Seniors
• Medline Plus: Seniors' Health Issues
• National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Healthy Promotion
• Senior Net: Health