A post is being widely shared on social media claiming that ageing starts from the feet upwards. Let us fact-check the claim made in the post.
Claim: Ageing starts from the feet upwards.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to show that ageing starts from the feet upwards. Ageing is complex as it impacts different body parts differently. As one ages, the performance of many parts like heart, kidneys, brain, lungs, etc decline. The focus is not particularly on one part of the body for everyone and varies for each individual. Walking for at least 150 minutes a week is generally recommended for healthy ageing. Hence, the claim made in the post is MISLEADING.
According to the World Health Organisation, there are certain common health conditions associated with ageing which include hearing loss, cataracts, diabetes, dementia, osteoarthritis, etc. “As people age, they are more likely to experience several conditions at the same time.” There is no specific mention of ageing starting from the feet upwards.
According to the World Report on Ageing and Health published by WHO, the changes that constitute and influence ageing are complex. “At a biological level, ageing is associated with the gradual accumulation of a wide variety of molecular and cellular damage. Over time, this damage leads to a gradual decrease in physiological reserves, an increased risk of many diseases, and a general decline in the capacity of the individual. Ultimately, it will result in death.” And these changes are also said to be neither linear nor consistent.
As one ages, the performance of many parts like the heart, kidneys, brain, lungs, etc declines. The focus is not particularly on one part of the body for everyone.
Ageing and the feet:
The feet are one of the most important parts of the body because it is required to do many different activities such as walking, running, and climbing. As one gets older, the skin thins, and you become more prone to conditions affecting the feet. “The foot’s ligaments, fascia and skin start to lose elasticity, while the skin begins to harden.” Many such changes happen, however, there is no scientific evidence that ageing starts from the feet upwards.
According to the CDC, moving more and sitting less throughout the day is good for one’s body and helps in healthy ageing. Walking for at least 150 minutes a week is generally recommended.
To sum it up, there is no scientific evidence to show that ageing starts from the feet upwards.
