DIfE scientists working in Research Focus 2 aim to help people live longer and healthier lives.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, about one in five people in Germany is older than 65. The number of elderly people has increased by more than 36 percent in the last 20 years. Aging is often associated with processes and serious illnesses limiting the quality of life: from muscle mass loss, frailty, loss of mobility and independence, to overweight, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Especially in a society whose members are getting older and older, a long and healthy life becomes increasingly important. “Living healthier, aging better” – following this motto the development of innovative nutritional strategies could decisively contribute to an  improved health status of the 50 plus generation and delay adverse effects of aging. In order to create the basis for this, scientists within Research Focus 2 are investigating the causes of diet-related impairments and diseases of older people. The emphasis is on examinations of the musculature and bone structure.