Annotated Bibliography #3

Amita Raj

Abney

6^th Period

November 4^th, 2010

Annotated Bibliography #3

Brody, Jane E. "What to Do Now to Feel Better at 100." New York Times. 25 Oct. 2010. Web. 04 Nov. 2010.

                This article is mainly about how well the body functions after aging. It centers on the idea that the secret to combat aging is to slow down the loss of physiological reserve. One of the scarier complications that accompany aging is that we may lose up to 90% of kidney function and not even realize it. The life expectancy of the country has been increasing, and many elderly people are living past their 100s. The main point Brody is trying to make is that this deterioration of body function occurs way before people reach the age of 60. It is essential that people make exercise programs part of their daily routines. For example, if you have a sedentary lifestyle in your mid 40s then it is more likely you will develop immobility as you age.

                I was interested by this article because one of the patient’s Dr. Venkatesh saw was 103 years old! I was amazed that someone could live for so long despite many complications related to body functions. My mentor described to me how the patient’s kidney diseases were accompanied by other illnesses like diabetes and various physical issues dealing with the bones and muscles. The doctor told me how even though some of the illnesses may not have been avoidable, there may have been a chance to reduce the intensity of symptoms if some precautionary methods were taking during the patient’s mid-life. Examples of these methods include daily walking routines, consuming a healthy diet, and participating in activities that improve physical, social, and emotional well-being. It made me realize how difficult it is for elderly people to maintain their lifestyle without the help of family members and friends. Taking care of your body may sound like a burden in the present, but even the slightest commitment can go miles in the long run.