Because of improvements in medical care and better sanitation, the average life span and life expectancy in the United States grew dramatically during the twentieth century from 47 years in 1900 to 79 years in 1996. With the American population expected to continue aging in the 21st century, there will be an even larger group of elderly people, many of whom will be living active and healthy lives.Healthy Aging Sourcebook provides information to help the elderly, soon-to-be elderly, and others understand the aging process and the choices that must be made and pursued to maintain health. These choices include eating habits, exercise practices, sleeping patterns, living situations, and the ability to discern legitimate medical procedures from fraudulent ones. Additional topics covered in the book include theories of aging, the different aging experiences of diverse minority groups, safety concerns, and end-of-life decisions.