1. Do it now! Even if tomorrow comes, it may not be the day you expected. Most of the way through my 50s I was young, healthy and strong. There were lots of things I was going to do later when I retired or when I had more money. At 59, when I started having joint pain, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, and things have gone downhill from there. There is no time like the present, and I am doing the things that are important to me instead of putting them off. Luckily I still can. --Jessie, 62

2. Own your feelings. If you lose someone you love, allow yourself to feel the loss and to grieve and to work through all the feelings -- love, loss, anger, disappointment and fear of the future without your loved one. Only by feeling the feelings will you be able to progress and get on with your life. --Marlyn, 67

3. Get some exercise. I know what you're saying: "But I don't have time," or, "I hate to exercise." Face it girl, if you don't use it you lose it! Energy begets energy. You'll be surprised how much better you feel. Find interesting things to do. Take up a hobby. Read wonderful books. You have to exercise your mind as well as your body.
And see your doctor once a year -- get the mammogram, get a bone density test and a sigmoidoscopy. In other words, take care of yourself -- you're worth it! --Sharon, 60

4. Keep up with the times. Stop wearing the same teased hair and makeup that worked for you 10 years ago. Get a makeover if necessary. And keep smiling! Even though we may feel lousy, we don't have to look it. I never go to the doctor or any appointments in sweats. Put on a nice blouse, slacks and a spritz of cologne before you go out the door. --Marie, 60