Which theory posits that aging results from accumulation of cell damage?

Which theory posits that aging results from accumulation of cell damage?

• A. Genetic theories
• B. Wear-and-tear theories
• C. Cellular theories
• D. Types of care facilities

Answer: (C)

Aging is viewed as the result of damage that accumulates in cells and tissues over time from everyday use and environmental exposure. Wear-and-tear theories suggest that as metabolism produces byproducts like free radicals and as we encounter factors such as sun, toxins, pollution, and physical stress, damage to proteins, lipids, DNA, and organelles accumulates. The body's repair systems fix much of this damage, but not all of it, so the net effect over years is a gradual decline in structure and function across multiple systems. This idea focuses on the gradual, cumulative impact of damage, rather than on aging being strictly programmed by genes or arising from intrinsic cellular mechanisms.

Aging is viewed as the result of damage that accumulates in cells and tissues over time from everyday use and environmental exposure. Wear-and-tear theories suggest that as metabolism produces byproducts like free radicals and as we encounter factors such as sun, toxins, pollution, and physical stress, damage to proteins, lipids, DNA, and organelles accumulates. The body's repair systems fix much of this damage, but not all of it, so the net effect over years is a gradual decline in structure and function across multiple systems. This idea focuses on the gradual, cumulative impact of damage, rather than on aging being strictly programmed by genes or arising from intrinsic cellular mechanisms.