CLEVELAND -- Just because you may be getting older doesn't mean you have to be senile, sick and slow, according to this week's Successful Aging report.

Dr. David Lipschitz explored some common myths on aging in his book, "Breaking the Rules of Aging."

"My mother who is 80 can do anything and everything she wants, and she's dating an older man," Lipschitz said.

Thinner is not better, he added. In fact, he said losing weight is the worst thing for older adults.

"When you're older, over the age of 70, weight loss is one of the most important predictors of illness," he said.

Lipschitz said walking is not the perfect exercise for older adults.

Exercise that's easy is exercise that doesn't work.

"There is an absolute direct correlation between maximum exercise tolerance and health and longevity," he said. "The more you do, the healthier you'll be."

WEWS reported that even the myth that one's sex drive decreases with age is harmful to those over 70.

"Most 70-year-olds are still interested in and would like to be sexually active," Lipschitz said. "The idea you lose interest when you get older is a myth."

Baby boomers are turning to Lipschitz in droves for his unconventional approach on how to age with health, vitality and sharpness of mind.

"If we take care of ourselves today, we can reduce the risk of dependency tomorrow," he said.

For more information on the "Successful Aging Initiative" or available resources, write NewsChannel5, 3001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114, or log onto our special section on aging.