The social support of friends and family can provide a buffer to loneliness, depression, stress, and isolation, all of which can impair mental health.

Now that you've retired, what are you going to do with all that spare time?

It's tough to enjoy the golden years among bundles of old newspapers, stacks of store receipts and collections of used margarine tubs. You're also at higher risk for falls and fires.

Mature adults make up an enormous pool of knowledge, talent, experience, and expertise. Many find volunteering offers a way to use skills they gained through a lifetime.

Whether the move is to a smaller townhouse, apartment, or assisted living center, physical challenges and a lack of space can confront gardeners.

Introducing some of your cherished tunes to a grandchild may provide a great catalyst for imparting information about your past.

Having a pet can be a boon to body and soul—especially as we age. Pets can relieve stress—which may help explain why studies have found that pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

That hobby you've been toying with could be your prescription for a healthier, more satisfying life.

You may have depression if you have a persistent sad or "empty" mood, or if you find it difficult to concentrate or make decisions.

In general, only about three percent of the elderly living independently in the community will experience depression. That figure increases to around 20 to 30 percent of persons in nursing homes or with chronic illnesses like emphysema, heart disease or diabetes.

Although anyone can suffer from depression, it is particularly common among older adults. Depression affects 15 out of every 100 adults older than 65.

Although sadness touches all our lives, true depression is different in its intensity and persistence.

Depression is widely misunderstood, leading many people to believe myths about the condition, the people who have it, and its treatment.

Because depression isn't a normal part of growing older, it's important to learn the signs of this condition and seek help if you or a loved one could be suffering from it.