Senescence: Aging, the process of becoming old, or the state of being old.

As we age, we senesce. No known substance can extend life, but here are some useful tips for improving the chances of living a long time and staying healthy:

1. Eat a balanced diet, including five helpings of fruits and vegetables a day.
2. Exercise regularly (check with a doctor before starting an exercise program).
3. Get regular health check-ups.
4. Don't smoke (it's never too late to quit).
5. Practice safety habits at home to prevent falls and fractures.
6. Always wear your seatbelt in a car.
7. Stay in contact with family and friends.
8. Stay active through work, play, and community.
9. Avoid overexposure to the sun and the cold.
10. If you drink, moderation is the key.
11. When you drink, let someone else drive.
12. Keep personal and financial records in order to simplify budgeting and investing.
13. Plan long-term housing and money needs.
14. Keep a positive attitude toward life.
15. Do things that make you happy.

The word "senescence" derives from the Latin "senex," meaning "old." "Senile" and "senior" come from the same root, as does "senate" which dates back to ancient Rome where the "Senatus" was originally a "council of elders" composed of the heads of patrician families.