It would be a mistake to think that life in your 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond will resemble aging in your grandparents' generation. Discoveries in genetics and medicine, plus many changes in society are occurring at great speed and in ways that are likely to redefine health, vitality, and independence for older Americans. Scientists say many Baby Boomers will have quality of life in their mid-80s akin to what people in their 60s have today.

But there are dangers. Government and business could seriously under invest, leaving us poorly prepared to address aging in the 21st Century. Nearsighted political agendas could impose extreme regulations on research, stifling the development of health technologies that could stall or even halt progress toward medical breakthroughs.

Help us make sure that none of this happens. Since 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research has been fighting hard to give aging-related research top priority. This, the premiere issue of our E-newsletter, Living Longer and Loving It! is the newest tool we plan to use to reach people like you with the latest information on aging, and to enlist your support.

Indeed, with each issue, Living Longer and Loving It! will give you a unique peek inside laboratories, medical centers, and Congressional hearing rooms--the places where key developments and decisions about the future of aging are being made. It will also provide you with an informed and enlightened viewpoint on many complex issues and show how you can affect change. Truly, the Alliance for Aging Research hopes you will be spurred to action and demand that our national leaders understand the need for more and better research.

Imagine the wonderful longevity today's Baby Boomers might enjoy if research into healthy aging becomes an urgent national priority. That vision informs and drives the Alliance for Aging Research. It has already captured the attention of top scientists, major foundations, corporate leaders, and influential policymakers.

And now you. Welcome!