Part A (Q1): Define ageing and explain its basic characteristics.

Ageing is a progressive, universal, and irreversible biological process characterized by a gradual decline in the physiological functions of the body over time. However, in social work, ageing is viewed as a multi-dimensional process encompassing not just biological decline, but also psychological changes and social transitions (like retirement or widowhood). Gerontology is the scientific study of this process.

Basic Characteristics:

1. Universality: It happens to all living organisms that survive past maturity; there are no exceptions.
2. Intrinsic: It is dictated primarily by internal biological factors (genetics, cellular wear and tear), rather than purely environmental ones (like catching a disease).
3. Progressive: It is a continuous, gradual process, not a sudden event. It accumulates slowly over the lifespan.
4. Deleterious/Degenerative: It inherently involves a decline in functional capacity (e.g., reduced lung capacity, slower metabolism, weaker immune response), making the organism increasingly vulnerable to disease and death.