How does aging affect the body?

Biologically, aging is the accumulation of random damage to the building blocks of life -- especially to our deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and to certain proteins, carbohydrates and fats that reside in our organs and tissues. Damage begins early in life and eventually with old age exceeds the body's self-repair capabilities. Later comes the characteristic manifestations of aging: loss of muscle and bone mass, a decline in reaction time, compromised hearing and vision, graying of the hair, and a reduced elasticity of the skin.

Many of us judge the degree and speed of the aging process by this wrinkling effect. Although it is in fact one of the most observable consequences of the inevitable aging process, it has little to do with our expiry date. Wrinkling may be, however, what motivates a guy in mid life to consider the cherry red convertible sports car! It is unquestionably what sells topical creams loaded with miracle anti-aging effects that are supposed to make you look twenty again.