Chronological age reflects the number of years lived, but it doesn’t necessarily correspond to an individual’s physical and mental condition.
Biological age offers a more accurate representation of one’s health status.
Several methods are employed to assess biological age:
- Epigenetic Tests
- Measure DNA methylation patterns that change with age.
- The ‘epigenetic clock’ predicts biological age based on specific DNA methylation sites.
- Telomere Length Assessment
- Telomeres, protective caps at chromosome ends, shorten with each cell division.
- Shorter telomeres are associated with cellular aging and age-related diseases.
- Biomarkers in Body Fluids
- Analyze levels of specific markers in blood or other fluids, including:
- Inflammatory markers.
- Metabolic indicators like insulin and glucose.
- Hormone levels.
- Immune system markers.
- Proteomic aging clocks measure protein levels to estimate biological age.
- Analyze levels of specific markers in blood or other fluids, including:
- Physiological Assessments
- Evaluate organ and system functions, such as:
- Lung capacity.
- Blood pressure.
- Vision and hearing acuity.
- Cardiovascular fitness.
- Joint mobility.
- Evaluate organ and system functions, such as:
- Cognitive Function Tests
- Assess mental capabilities, including:
- Memory retention.
- Attention span.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Information processing speed.
- Assess mental capabilities, including:
Combining these methods provides a comprehensive evaluation of biological age, capturing various aspects of the aging process. While commercial tests are available, their scientific validity varies, and they may only reflect certain aging facets. Ongoing research aims to refine these assessments for more accurate and holistic measurements.