Dr. Rhea Rogers explains how aging affects the body's energy systems
A new broadcast details the link between muscle loss and glucose usage, while also covering end-of-life conversations and community walking groups.
By Noor Phillips ·
Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, described the human metabolism as a biological power plant on the television program Aging Untold. Rogers explained that every organ in the body maintains its own specific energy supply.
The physician noted that when an organ with high energy demands loses power, symptoms appear faster. Rogers identified the eyes and ears as common sites for these early visible changes in older adults. She linked these physical shifts to the natural loss of muscle mass and the concurrent gain in fat that occurs as people age.
Rogers stated that muscle tissue plays a direct role in how the body utilizes glucose, which serves as a primary energy source. The program, which aired on November 9, positioned these metabolic changes as a central theme of the episode.
The broadcast also examined the process of saying goodbye to loved ones. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck advised that individuals facing the end of life should not feel obligated to appear strong or manage the emotions of those around them. Cradduck emphasized that the person dying needs to receive the same support they would provide to others.
Katherine Ambrose, an aging well coach, listed grief, unfinished business, and relationship dynamics as factors people must navigate during this time. Ambrose noted that every individual handles the process differently. Laura Lyster-Mensh, a death doula at Historic Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C., discussed her work in promoting what she calls death positivity. Her role involves helping visitors engage in healthy conversations about mortality at the national landmark.
The program concluded with a segment on the Food Court 5000, a group of mall walkers in Oregon. Krista Catwood, the founder of the group, said the members have become local celebrities at the Lloyd Center mall. The group gathers every Sunday morning for a three and a half mile power walk. Catwood described the activity as silly, social, and designed to be shared with others.
