At what age is a person considered old according to modern science, and why is the answer much later than most people imagine?

At what age is a person considered old according to modern science, and why is the answer much later than most people imagine?

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Key Points:

  • A Stanford University study published in Nature Medicine reveals that biological old age begins around 78 years, much later than commonly believed, based on analysis of thousands of blood plasma samples.
  • Researchers identified three distinct biological aging phases: adulthood (34-60 years) with stable protein levels, late maturity (60-78 years) with noticeable changes, and final aging starting at 78 years marked by significant physiological decline.
  • Aging is not a linear process; instead, it involves abrupt biological shifts linked to reduced cellular repair capacity, especially DNA repair, triggering widespread metabolic and tissue changes.
  • Advanced aging is characterized by weakened skeletal and muscle systems, reduced mobility, sensory decline, altered sleep patterns, skin aging, and cognitive difficulties, all reflected in plasma protein