That is almost how Hoeijmakers explains it, but not quite, see the link in my other comment for pointers. He thinks aging is not programmed per se, but what is

That is almost how Hoeijmakers explains it, but not quite, see the link in my other comment for pointers. He thinks aging is not programmed per se, but what is programmed is the switch of modes. Aging happens automatically as faults built up in dna over time. If an organism switches from "organism growth mode" to "repair dna mode", the chance of survival increases. Now, how to conveniently trick the body into the latter mode is the million dollar question.