Terry Tirrito says that more preparation is necessary and that it must begin much earlier than most people realize.

"Just as one prepares for any journey, the journey to successful and healthy aging necessitates a plan," said Tirrito. "That plan must begin in mid-life at the very latest."

In her new book, Aging in the New Millennium: A Global View, published by USC Press, Tirrito offers vital information for anyone who wants to learn more about the aging process. She also outlines what people can do to ensure that they will age successfully.

"To age successfully or live a successful old age," wrote Tirrito, "one must be a courageous ager."

Tirrito uses the term "courageous ager" to describe a person who has focus, vision, and a willingness to take risks. A courageous ager is prepared physically, psychologically and spiritually for aging. Courageous agers, says Tirrito, exhibit certain personality characteristics that benefit them in preparing for, and overcoming, the physical, psychological and spiritual challenges of aging. Tirrito says social conditions also affect the aging experience.

To be a courageous ager, says Tirrito, a middle-aged person must be prepared for aging psychologically. To do this, one must deepen social connections and develop a sense of satisfaction. Tirrito says that in other phases of aging, a person must free oneself from social restraints, develop wisdom, and remain engaged in life even while experiencing diminished physical functioning.

Tirrito offers the following suggestions for middle-aged people who want to prepare for aging:

• Eat a healthy diet, exercise, limit stress, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Healthy people live longer, are happier, and are more satisfied with life.
  
• Discover hobbies and leisure activities to enjoy throughout life. Participation in these activities benefits older people by enhancing quality of life and mental health and by providing companionship and social networks.
  
• Ignore myths and stereotypes about aging and defy negative attitudes about aging and old people. These negative images and attitudes create fear of aging and perpetuate discrimination against and negative self-images among older people.
  
• Investigate programs and services that are available to older people. From education and travel programs to advocacy groups and home health assistance, a variety of programs exists to make life more enjoyable and comfortable for older people.
  
• Strengthen and maintain relationships with family and friends. Advances in computer and telecommunications technologies may make it easier for older adults to share their ideas, cultures, histories, and lives with friends and family in the future.
  

In Aging in the New Millennium, Tirrito also examines stereotypes about aging and older adults. Negative attitudes about aging and old people perpetuate discrimination and fear of aging and can become self-fulfilling prophecies. Tirrito says that the elimination of negative attitudes about aging can increase the well-being of people as they age.

In her book, Tirrito also discusses the biology of aging and looks at the treatment of diseases that affect older people. She describes new developments in research, spirituality and aging and programs and services that are available to older persons.

Advances in medical technology and improvements in healthcare will bring unprecedented changes in life expectancy and quality of life in the future, says Tirrito, but there are controversies, debates, and ethical dilemmas that must be resolved.

"It is hoped that a global society that is aging courageously will emerge from these controversies," she said.

05/03