We all realize from the time we're able to think rationally that proper diet and exercise is essential to a healthy lifestyle. But when you're older, there is a lot more that you need to focus on. Check out these tips on aging in the article below and see what you may be neglecting.

Go for regular preventive health check-ups with your local physician. As you get older, your body is more susceptible to disease and injury. By having regular check-ups, you could detect and treat small health problems before they turn into bigger problems. It is also recommended that you attend dental and eyes check-ups as well.

Feel free to have a drink and a good meal once in a while. Even if you are watching your diet closely and do not consume alcohol on a regular basis, you should take the time to have a good glass of wine that you used to love and a great meal that was your favorite. Enjoy things in life.

If you are feeling down because the thought of aging has you in a funk, just smile and laugh. You have the wisdom that those younger than you do not. Laugh and smile often, and occasionally cry, but laugh more. It's true that laughter is the best medicine because laughter releases your body's feel-good emotions called endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.

As you get older, it's more important than ever to surround yourself with people that make you happy, lift you up and do not bring you down. This can be accomplished by having a nice family dinner where everyone is involved or sharing good times and good memories with your favorite people.

The appearance of your skin is a key element to looking and feeling younger, so take care of your skin by using moisturizers. This will keep the skin hydrated and soft. Sometimes it will help to work with a professional dermatologist to determine the right type of lotion and moisturizer that is best for you.

Aging gracefully is everyone's goal in life. A great way to start on that path is adopt a healthy diet – and it's never too late to start. By eating five fruits and vegetables, at least three servings of whole grains, and drinking five to eight glasses of eight ounce water a day, you will be giving your body the proper nutrients it needs to begin the aging process gracefully. There are many easy ways to get fruits and vegetables too – have you tried juicing?

Start making a will. Death is a topic people don't like to talk about, but it is inevitable. When you feel ready, begin preparing your will and final papers so that your family knows how you would like things to be handled after you pass on. This will also make sure that there are not any family fights and disagreements later on.

You undoubtedly see now that there's a lot more you should be focusing on than the same things you focused on at 20 years old. Getting older is an entirely new ballgame. Make sure you're using these tips to fight against the aging process. You can't beat it, but you can hang in there for a few good rounds.