Aging is Not a Steady Decline

Aging is characterized by non-linear trajectories, in which individuals may experience periods of health improvements alongside declines. Psychological stress may influence biological aging, suggesting a complex relationship between the two. Contrary to previous beliefs that health declines will be steady, research indicates that people can experience cycles of illness and recovery, with many facing serious health issues only in the final three years of life. This understanding calls for a reevaluation of aging and the anticipated needs of an increasingly older population.