Ageing Research

Living healthy, longer lives

Increased life expectancy is one of the most notable human achievements of the last century. We are living longer, and our enduring quality of life depends on healthy ageing. We all aspire to a long and healthy old age, but we know that older people are at increased risk of disease and disability that can seriously affect quality of life for them and their families. This is why Newcastle Biomedicine's research and treatment of our ageing population is important for all of us.

Newcastle Biomedicine has been at the forefront of research into ageing for the last fifty years. Our work on ageing has been and is well-supported by the National Institute for Health Research, Research Councils and the Wellcome Trust. Today, Newcastle is a leading centre for ageing research in Europe, recognised by the award of a Queen's Anniversary Prize in 2009.

Our research into ageing is focused on three related areas:

  • Biology of Ageing: We aim to understand why and how tissues age, and why ageing tissues are more vulnerable to damage and disease.
  • Clinical Research: We are studying illnesses of later life and researching and testing clinical and social interventions to promote healthier ageing.
  • Social Consequences of an Ageing Population: We aim to understand the impact an ageing population will have on the way we all live.

The results of our work are used in front-line service and care provision for the elderly today, and in planning public policy for the needs of tomorrow. Our basic science research provides a strong foundation on which we can develop cures and better treatments for age related diseases. Our clinical research aims to improve people’s quality of life, and help all to live healthy, longer lives.