Aging Research: Translating Scientific Discovery into Clinical Intervention

The world population is aging, and at a steadily increasing rate. In many ways people are not only living longer, but healthier. However, the challenges of an aging population, for individuals and society, are also increasingly evident: a significant percentage of older Americans report functional problems, rates of morbidity from heart disease and hypertension are still high, and exponential growth in Alzheimer's disease is predicted without new and more effective treatments. This article highlights some of the National Institute on Aging's research, including basic studies in genetics and the biological determinants of aging, translational studies in Alzheimer's disease, studies to reduce disease and disability among older adults, and studies of the social and behavioral aspects of aging and Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER). The revolution in longevity brings with it an increased urgency to understand aging. A broad-based effort across key areas-basic biology, epidemiology, translational and clinical medicine, and social and behavioral factors-is critical to discovering new ways to support better health and maintain independence for older people.