This book explains the physiological realities of aging and guides readers in taking positive steps to retain health, dignity, and vitality through their later years.The Rolling Stones (now in their 60s) have sung to us for years about 'what a drag it is getting old,' but it doesn't have to be that way. Despite living in a youth-oriented society, many of the aged patients seen by Dr. Levine have kept their emotional zest, intellectual zeal, and empowering dignity. The author points out well-known public figures who are clearly aging with dignity and vitality. He shows the steps that can be taken to age while retaining these qualities, defying a society that challenges this quest. Living longer is not enough for most of us: we don't want to just survive. The quality of our life as we age is most important, and much of that depends on our attitudes and approach. The text includes strategies to optimize self-esteem as well as health, including attention to nutrition, exercise, health care, education and mind stimulation, sexuality, social activities, and cosmetics and cosmetic surgery.Readers are shown the physiological facts of aging, from cellular to systemic changes. The most common diseases in old age are described, and actions are suggested to avoid many of the diseases. The author also explores how the disorders change abilities and self-perception.