Whether you've noticed the signs of aging in family and friends, or acknowledged how it affects your own mind and body, getting older is an unavoidable part of life. And while Ponce de Leon never found the Fountain of Youth, daily preventative measures can be taken to help you age beautifully both inside and out.

World Champion cyclist Kristin Armstrong, 34, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis nearly seven years ago. She is now preparing to compete as a cyclist in the upcoming 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China. Armstrong is supporting the Arthritis Foundation's annual Arthritis Walk events and Team TripleFlex by sharing her personal success story.

Sore muscles, joint pain and mental slowdowns might seem inevitable as you grow older. But what if degeneration wasn't a part of the aging process? Staying active is key for a healthy lifestyle, but what else can you do for your body as it ages?

Here's where long distance caregivers can turn for the help they need.

In a matter of seconds, most people can think of eight women who are important in their lives, whether they are mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, friends or coworkers. The ease with which most people can come up with this list just reinforces the prevalence of breast cancer in this country; according to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

There are those who extol the virtues of a runner's high, the intensity of weight lifting and the teamwork basketball inspires, but not everyone can participate in such high-impact exercise. The health benefits of swimming, however, can be experienced by nearly anyone no matter what their age or health condition.

The relationship between a physician and a patient is an important one, especially if a complex diagnosis is involved. But sometimes there are barriers on both ends that can cause confusion and frustration. By following these suggestions, you'll be in a better position to maximize the outcome of your doctor appointments.