Which theory suggests that age is determined by the amount of stress to the body and resulting damage?

The Wear and Tear theory posits that the aging process is a result of cumulative damage to cells and tissues in the body due to environmental stressors and biological processes over time. According to this theory, every time the body undergoes stress—be it physical, emotional, or environmental—there is potential for damage that accumulates over the years. This theory emphasizes that this ongoing "wear and tear" is what leads to the gradual decline in the function of organs and systems, ultimately resulting in the observable changes associated with aging.

In this context, various factors such as the lifestyle choices, exposure to toxins, and the overall wear of biological systems contribute to how an individual ages. By understanding the Wear and Tear theory, healthcare providers can grasp the significance of managing stressors and promote healthier lifestyles to potentially mitigate the aging process's effects.

The other theories, while also addressing aspects of aging, do not specifically focus on the concept of cumulative stress and damage like the Wear and Tear theory. For instance, the Biological Age theory relates more to the biological indicators of age rather than damage, the Telomere theory focuses on the role of telomeres in cellular aging, and the Life Span theory encompasses a broader view of longevity without specifically addressing stress-induced damage.