Irish comedian Dave Allen once joked, 'I don't mind getting old, especially when you consider the alternative'. The fact is that ageing can bring all sorts of benefits. Studies show that the over 50s have more confidence, are happier to take certain risks and enjoy a better work-life balance than younger generations.

On the downside (you knew this was coming) health can be an issue, not least because of its impact on your career and earning ability. Of course, there's no shortage of advice out there on what you should be doing to stay in shape. In fact, that's half the problem - there's so much information available it's hard to know where to start.

The good news is that staying healthy as you get older isn't rocket science. For the over 50s, it's often a combination of positive thinking and an active lifestyle. Thanks to better medical care and improved health education, we're living longer than any previous generation.

Live longer, better
According to UK government statistics, life expectancy at 65 is at its highest level ever for both men and women. Men aged 65 can expect to live for a further 16.6 years and women a further 19.4 years. As age expert John Grimley Evans puts it, 'We're spending a longer time living and a shorter time dying'. Well, it's a step in the right direction.

How long we live and how well we feel are obviously important factors when it comes to planning our work, our finances and pretty much everything else we do. Adopting healthy habits can mean many fruitful, rewarding decades ahead once we pass 50.

Of course, health isn't all down to how we behave. Genes clearly play a part in longevity, although less than you might think. Studies suggest that genes are responsible for up to 50% of changes in mental function and up to 35% of physiological changes as we age. Longevity itself is only 25% to 35% inherited, which leaves plenty of room to make a difference via diet, exercise and outlook.

The key to a long and healthy life lies in taking a sensible, balanced approach to three of the issues covered in this section. In 70 is the new 50, we look at the benefits of staying active. Laughter is the Best Medicine explains how looking on the bright side of life can help our health, and in How I made it to 98, an extremely sprightly nonagenarian describes how her lifestyle keeps her young at heart.

And if all that sounds like too much hard work, you could always try Lucille Ball's advice on the secret of staying young: 'Live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age'.

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