Which theory states aging is programmed in DNA?

• A. Genetic theories
• B. Wear-and-tear theories
• C. Cellular theories
• D. Types of care facilities

Answer: (A)

Genetic theories describe aging as a process programmed in our DNA. The idea is that the genome contains a biological timetable—genes that turn on and off and cellular processes that progress in a timed way—that lead to aging over time. Mechanisms often discussed include gene regulation changes and telomere-related clocks that contribute to a predetermined decline in function. This differs from wear-and-tear theories, which blame aging on accumulated damage from use and environmental exposure, and from cellular theories, which emphasize damage and dysfunction at the cellular level rather than a built-in genetic schedule. The option about care facilities is unrelated to why aging occurs at the biological level.