For most, good health is an achievable goal. Eating right, daily exercise and attention to personal safety is the key in conjunction with periodic checkups to keep blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes under control.

Nutrition
Nutrition remains important throughout life.  Nutrition-related problems become more evident after the age of 60 years: Weight loss (underweight) becomes a more serious problem than weight gain (overweight).

• Maintain a comfortable and safe weight.
• Eat a diet balanced in protein, fat and carbohydrates.
• Use a multivitamin and mineral supplement if your diet is not balanced, you have been ill, or you are losing weight.
• Consume at least 1,500 mg of elemental calcium daily (post-menopausal women) to help prevent osteoporosis.
• Consume a diet high in fiber or take a fiber supplement .

Although there are health claims for supplemental antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E and beta carotene, the best way to get these substances is by eating a diet that includes fruits and vegetables.

Exercise
Healthful physical activities include aerobic (endurance) exercises such as walking, swimming, dancing ("low impact") and strength exercises such as weight machines or elastic bands. An expert is needed to teach and supervise weight-lifting exercises. Stretching exercises should be done before and after any exercise to loosens muscles and lessens the risk of injury and muscle strain.
Exercise hints:

• Choose activities that you like.
• Make physical activity a part of each day.
• Don't overdo exercise--"start slow, go slow."
• Exercise with a friend or group.
• Have fun!

Safety
Home safety problems are common: slippery bathroom floors or tubs, inadequate lighting, frayed rugs or carpets, loose cords, and inadequate heating and cooling systems. Modify the home to make it safer.

• Stay in contact with family and friends.
• Plan for future financial needs and living situations.
• Complete an advanced directive.
• Maintain a positive attitude.

Source: Cleveland Clinic Center for Consumer Health Information