EDITORIAL: LIFESTYLE AND THERAPEUTICS IN THE ELDERLY.

According to the 2012 European Ageing Report, life expectancy will continue to increase, although more slowly than in the past century. Not only are economic and budgetary projections world-wide taking the increasing aging phenomenon into special consideration, but so is the welfare system, with the additional aim of reducing the prevalence of disability and overt diseases in the elderly. Over recent years it has become absolutely clear that many age-related diseases are the result of what is often a synergistic interaction among various pathologic conditions and agents. Quite recently, definitions have been agreed upon of hormesis and frailty; these have now been unanimously acknowledged through international consensus meetings and projects. More widespread diffusion of clear and easily-understandable guidelines for healthy aging and for the appropriate handling of age-related diseases should be pursued and favored.