Local | Senior Lifestyle

‘Optimal Aging’ topic for arthritis center talk

Michael Hewitt, Ph.D.
Michael Hewitt, Ph.D.

What we can do to “live younger longer” will be discussed in “Optimal Aging, Rewinding the Clock,” a University of Arizona Arthritis Center presentation by Michael Hewitt, Ph.D., Canyon Ranch Health Resort research director for exercise science, on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 6 to 7:15 p.m., at  the University of Arizona Medical Center — University Campus, DuVal Auditorium, 1501 N. Campbell Ave.

Many aches and pains that accompany growing older are not a direct result of the aging process. Hewitt will highlight the differences between chronological, biological and psychological age. He will delve into determinants of aging that individuals can control: the 10 biomarkers of aging, as developed by Tufts University researchers. These biomarkers are indicators of physical function that influence well-being and are measures of the significant biological states used to monitor our health.

Hewitt will address how to positively influence these indicators while highlighting the effects and importance of physical activity at any age and any level of ability. He also will discuss how to improve an individual’s life span as well as “health span,” including lifestyle and activity modifications.

Hewitt is a clinical specialist in exercise and aging, cardiometabolic physiology and exercise for bone health. During his 20 years at Canyon Ranch, he has written more than 15,000 individual exercise prescriptions and has lectured throughout the United States and abroad. Dedicated to preventative medicine, he’s especially interested in the prevention of sarcopenia, the age-related loss of body mass.

The free 75-minute presentation will include a question and answer period. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information or to register, visit www.arthritis.arizona.edu, call 626-5040 or email livinghealthy@arthritis.arizona.edu.

The lecture is part of the “Living Healthy with Arthritis” monthly talks presented by the University of Arizona Arthritis Center at the UA College of Medicine and supported through the Susan and Saul Tobin Endowment for Research and Education in Rheumatology.