Aging gracefully: lifespan vs. healthspan.

Scientists say the field of aging research is on the threshold of a new way of thinking--shifting focus from specific age-related illnesses to searching to understand aging itself as a biological process, according to a report prepared by Public Agenda for the Alliance for Aging Research and the American Federation for Aging Research. Today's goal is extending the healthspan, not just the lifespan. The idea is to keep older people productive longer.

In the study, scientists identified three major factors that are driving progress in this field: studies in genetics, development of new technology, and integration of knowledge from different fields. "The change in thinking is really what leapt out at me," marvels Ruth A. Wooden, president of Public Agenda, of "The Science of Aging Gracefully."

"The aging research field is thinking expansively and putting the disparate pieces together. But the real question is whether our funding system, which silos dollars into specific disease categories, hinders scientists from making the breakthroughs they envision."

"Understanding the aging process--those basic fundamental mechanisms of aging--will help us understand how major geriatric diseases like cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions develop and progress," declares Stephanie Lederman, executive director of the American Federation for Aging Research. "An investment in aging research is ultimately an investment in disease specific research."

"This study highlights the tremendous promise of aging research and the public's understanding of its importance," concurs Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research. "We need to accelerate support for aging research in order to achieve longer, healthier lives for more Americans."

While many scientists voice strong doubts about the austere funding environment for basic research, a variety of bureaucratic and structural impediments, ethical concerns related to stem cells and other moral issues, and conflicting commercial interests, they still see a future of great promise. The areas that scientists believe have the greatest potential for progress include research on stem cells; metabolic functions; links between choices, behaviors, and the environment; progress on age-related diseases like Alzheimer's; and new pharmaceuticals.

The report suggests that many of the scientists' concerns about the public's understanding of these issues emanate from political arguments or media coverage. For example, researchers generally are pessimistic about public support for funding for aging research, but surveys suggest that society is far more supportive than the official political voices lead scientists to believe. This level of interest also indicates that informal communication networks in families and communities at large could provide opportunities to cultivate nuanced understanding of topics like healthspan and the lifestyle choices that contribute to an individual's ability to live healthier longer.