I'm 76 years of age. Twenty years ago I started running marathons. I run one marathon a year after training for six months. I do not run for time, just to finish, and I fast-walk about half of the marathon. I've finished all of them except one. Like many folks my age I have problems with arthritis and, yes, it is very painful. I think the people here who talk about the importance of diet and exercise are exactly right. It makes all the difference. Yes, I know it's not easy but it can be done if you are properly motivated. In my case it's running my yearly marathon. I know that's not for everyone but what is important is to find your...how shall I say it?...your exercise niche, something that you love to do, or at least don't find difficult or boring, anything that keeps you off of the sofa and moving around, keeps you physically active. And remember...let them call you "older" but never "old." You only get "old" if you allow yourself to go down that path.