We might think we know what ageing is, but it’s surprisingly difficult to pin down. In this album a 70-year-old fashion model and her 17-year-old grand-daughter take part in a series of scientific tests to see whether it is possible to distinguish between them. The results give an insight into what contemporary science can tell us about what happens at the molecular, genetic, cellular, physiological and psychological level during the ageing process. This material forms part of The Open University course SD805 Issues in brain and behaviour.
We stereotype old age but what are the real differences between the young and old and how do we measure them?
Transcript -- We stereotype old age but what are the real differences between the young and old and how do we measure them?
How the study of nematode worms and mice might be used as a model for lengthening human life.
Transcript -- How the study of nematode worms and mice might be used as a model for lengthening human life.
Pam and Emma undergo more tests to see how they compare in tests of strength, agility and 'wobbliness'.
Transcript -- Pam and Emma undergo more tests to see how they compare in tests of strength, agility and 'wobbliness'.
Pam and Emma have their cognitive skills tested to see if ageing affects specific brain areas.
Transcript -- Pam and Emma have their cognitive skills tested to see if ageing affects specific brain areas.