Biological Factors

It has been said that when one wants to know his or her potential longevity they need not look much further than where their genes originate. Indeed, looking into the past of one’s ancestry may give a glimpse of where one is headed with regard to longevity and durability. However, as one ages through mid-life, the environment may play a much bigger role in longevity than does one’s genetic predisposition.

With the ever increasing technological breakthroughs and discoveries in biological science it becomes apparent that mankind is beginning to more clearly understand human physiology and the interaction of a person with the environment. The discoveries of medical therapies and procedures to rejuvenate and revitalize a person are beginning to provide reasons for the many maladies and difficulties that create enormous human suffering. And yet one hopes to attain the promise of the potential for an increased quality of life. These modern medical miracles are adding years to a life, but what can they do to add life to years? More importantly, does the ability of maintaining a healthy and vigorous physiology independently support the expectation one may have to successfully age?

Recent research (Goleman, 2006) indicates that cells throughout our body are affected through the interaction of one’s social relationships. Goleman posits that our relationships create a daily standard for our moods and well-being, and may even influence our immune system. Goleman’s work synthesizes recent findings in biology and brain science strongly suggesting that our brains are socially wired.

There are many scientists and researchers searching for the clues to longevity. One particular scientist is Cambridge University’s genetics department head, Dr. Aubrey de Grey. Dr. de Grey (2006) is a biogerontologist and his interpretation of successful aging is interesting. He contends that any aging is a contradiction to his understanding of aging because the aging process itself is failure in that it brings on obsolescence of our functional and cognitive performance.