Just wanted to share a very important article about how we lose muscle mass as we get older, and this contributes to our dependency and inability to live independently:

http://www.healthletter.tufts.edu/issues/2003-03/sarcopenia.html

That's why I lift weights!

Oh yes, having watched my mother and MIL age, I'm determined not to be like them. That and maintaining weight loss (okay, losing weight at the moment) is what keeps me exercising and especially lifting.

The Extension Service office here offers a program for seniors based on Miriam Nelson's "Strong Women" books. Weight lifting for women who's median age is probably in the low 70's! (A couple of "younger" - i.e. late 60's - friends of mine go.)