Scientific and clinical approaches to aging and longevity

Scientific and medical discussions are increasingly focusing on the complexities of aging, ranging from molecular longevity research to the practicalities of palliative geriatric care.

In Switzerland, the new Institute for the Science of the Aging Brain (ISAB) in St. Gallen has commenced operations under the leadership of Adriano Aguzzi. Supported by 1.25 million Swiss francs from the canton for the period 2026–2030, the institute will focus on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Complementing this, research from King's College London highlights the individuality of aging at a molecular level, noting significant changes in genes and metabolites over time. One notable case involved a 117-year-old woman whose biological age was estimated to be over 23 years younger than her chronological age due to epigenetic factors.

On the clinical side, medical professionals recently gathered at the 2nd Hessian Symposium on Palliative Geriatrics at Klinikum Fulda. The event addressed the challenges of managing chronic illnesses and complex care needs in an aging population. Experts emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation and regional networks to improve quality of life and reduce avoidable hospitalizations through specialized palliative care teams.