In most modern societies, describing someone or something as "old" connotes images of decline, disease, disability, decrepitude, and death. These images, however, do not accurately describe the realities of aging, but rather reflect myths and stereotypes arising from a lack of knowledge about aging. Many of these images of aging arise form long-term patterns of incorrectly attributing pathologic conditions and undesirable characteristics to “normal” aging. Unfortunately, these misperceptions have been reinforced by terms such as “senility” that equate aging with impaired functioning. In fact, most older adults function well with little or no assistance and report being satisfied with there health and quality of life, despite a high prevalence of chronic conditions. Moreover, at any age, most adults aspire to grow old, but also to enjoy good health and functioning into old age.