95-year-old Richard Soller of Miramar, winner of the 200-meter finals at the National Senior Games, reflects the face of modern science in aging. Called senescence, it focuses on aging cells – cells that build up as we age, but don’t die – a major contributor to dementia, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Dr. Leonard Hayflick, who discovered the field, is himself 94 years old and leading the charge developing medicines to clear those hibernating cells in the future. One thing is clear now though: aerobics, resistance and balance training lowered senescent cells and increased functionality. So help may be on the way; but, in the meantime, keep exercising!
Originally posted for the Orlando Sentinel’s Central Florida 100.
Photo: prescottenews.com