What is ageing?

The absolute numbers and proportion of elderly people within society is increasing and will continue to increase into the next century. An understanding of normal biology, physiology and anatomy of ageing are an essential prerequisite for the treatment of pathology in the elderly. Gerontology is a young scientific discipline where important developments are being made. Progress in increasing longevity has so far been limited, but continuing improvements in the quality of life for the elderly remain an attainable goal.