Oxidative Stress and Aging.

The role of free radicals in aging process has been the centre of research for sometimes. It is assumed that with aging, damaging effects of oxygen free radicals possibly accumulate on all cellular components, especially the DNA and the mitochondria. In addition, because of the decreased efficiency of the antioxidant systems, the oxidative mechanisms prevail in numerous age-dependent diseases, such as arteriosclerosis, Parkinsonism and Alzheimer disease. The present study was aimed at revealing an eventual correlation between the oxidative balance and nutritional profile and/or psychopathological status in elderly population living in a small country, Orria (SA). Sixteen out of 24 subjects over ninety-year-old (2.36% of the country's population), were studied. Nine (56%) of them were females with mean age of 93.4 (SD 2.44) years. The psycho-physical state of the subjects was estimated by means of the mini mental state examination (MMSE), activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The nutritional state and the physical activity of the subjects were evaluated through the mini nutritional assessment (MNA). All studied parameters underwent a correlation analysis of Pearson. An excessive oxidative stress possibly influenced the psychophysical state of the elderly, which subsequently exerted negative effects on the quality of life as well as the life span of the subjects. Although it is difficult to define the exact role of free radicals in aging process, yet the levels of free radicals may be considered as true “marker” accompanying aging process.