ABSTRACT
Epidemiologic studies in humans and experimental data reported in several animal species indicate that good nutrition and regular physical exercise not only contribute significantly to health and well-being but also may prolong average and maximum life span. With scientific validation, these two interventions are now accepted as “natural” ways to deal with a number of disabilities and diseases related to old age. Accordingly, a brief discussion of their impact on functional competence and on longevity will serve as an appropriate conclusion to our study of the physiologic changes that occur with advancing age.
