HEALTHY AGING: MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACHES AND INNOVATIVE INTERVENTIONS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: This review article seeks to explore the pathophysiology of healthy aging and identify effective interventions that can promote health in the elderly population, addressing nutrition, physical activity, and social involvement. Methodology: Searches were performed in the PubMed database using combinations of descriptors with the Boolean term "AND": "Healthy aging", "Elderly health", "Physiology of aging", "Interventions for healthy aging" and "Geriatric care". A total of 125 articles were found, of which 36 were initially selected. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 36 articles were selected to compose the systematic review. The inclusion criteria were: articles in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, published between 2019 and 2024, available in full, that addressed the pathophysiology of healthy aging and associated interventions. Duplicate articles, only in the form of an abstract, or that were not directly related to the topic were deleted. Results: The review identified that pathophysiological processes such as DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and cellular senescence are central to healthy aging. Proper nutrition, rich in protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, has been shown to be essential for the prevention of weakness and cognitive decline. Supplements such as vitamin D, omega-3s, and curcumin have been shown to be effective in promoting muscle and cognitive health. Regular physical exercise, especially aerobic and resistance training, is critical for maintaining cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and muscle strength. In addition, nature-based interventions and social engagement have been shown to be crucial for the mental and emotional health of older adults. Conclusion: Promoting healthy aging requires an integrated approach that combines nutritional interventions, regular physical exercise, and strategies that promote social engagement and mental well-being. The implementation of these strategies can significantly improve the quality of life of the elderly, promoting active and healthy aging.