Aging is a process that is unavoidable, and many researchers have attempted to explain why and how we age by using different theories. These theories explain why we age by either stating how aging takes place or by stating the processes that leads to aging. Some of the theories and hypothesis have been developed over time by other researchers. There are those theories that are widely accepted whereas there are those that are not widely accepted. Generally, the theories of aging are crucial in helping us understand how and why we age.
The genome maintenance hypothesis of aging is a theory that claims that aging takes place because different factors cause damage to our DNA on a daily basis. Internal factors in the body such as mistakes in replication or external environmental factors such as toxins or radiation cause these damages (Bengtson & Settersten, 2016). Another theory that explains why we age is the oxidative damage orfree radical hypothesis of aging. There is continuous metabolism within our bodies, and this leads to the release of byproducts such as oxidative free radicals. Our cells release natural substances that are expected to neutralize the toxic free radicals. However, there are those byproducts that are not cleaned up and, therefore, escape to accumulate and damage DNA, proteins, and mitochondria. With time, they pile up and affect the body hence leading to aging (Bengtson & Settersten, 2016). The rate of living theory, on the other hand suggests that each individual has a limited number of “vital substances.” Over time, these substances are consumed, and in the end, death occurs as a result.
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Currently, individuals in the US and abroad are considering cosmetic surgery to keep them looking younger and prevent them from aging. Even though aging is harmless, individuals are considering options that will make them younger because the individuals are more focused on their body as a tool for identity and self-expression (Honigman & Castle, 2006). The society currently pays attention to the youth more than the old and this makes people consider cosmetic surgery to make them look younger. With this, they believe that they will be appreciated and can be able to explore more in life and gain more experience. In the past, age was something that was valued and the elderly were treated with respect, but this is the opposite with the current generation.
In conclusion, aging is attributed to several factors that are explained biologically. While other theories and hypothesis have explained how the process of aging takes place, others explain why it takes place. Currently, individuals in the US and abroad are opting for cosmetic surgery because they are concerned about their beauty and fear looking old. This trend has and will continue being rampant in the future as more individuals consider cosmetic surgery to look younger and have more life experiences.
References
Bengtson, V. L., & Settersten Jr, R. (Eds.). (2016). Handbook of theories of aging . Springer Publishing Company.
Honigman, R., & Castle, D. J. (2006). Aging and cosmetic enhancement. Clinical interventions in aging , 1 (2), 115.
