Life in the Years: Maximizing Physical and Cognitive Health in the Elderly

Biomarker-based tests are capable of predicting one’s biological age and mortality risk. To complement the suite of biomarker-based measurements, physical and cognitive performance tests can also improve the predictability of these measurement panels. Importantly, these measurements can be administered quite non-invasively and inexpensively, and training programs can be developed to improve parameters in aging. This will be a vital approach in improving the health of the aged and preventing massive healthcare expenditures at the end of life, which may become a serious fiscal issue if not addressed. This review touches on the ways people can measure function, the models that predict mortality based on this data, and the interventions that seek to improve these measures, subsequently extending lifespan and reducing mortality risk (as primary endpoints) and enhancing function and independence as secondary endpoints.

Healthy aging; Biomarkers; Physical performance tests; Cognitive function; Metabolic health; Longevity interventions; Cardiovascular fitness; Musculoskeletal strength; Cognitive decline prevention; Quality of life in elderly