How do you cope with growing old?

I used to care about gaining weight, but now I realise that even if I gain unwanted flab, I can simply lose it again. But now it seems I've developed an intense fear of growing old to fill the void.

I usually don't eat junk food but I ate a large slice of a homemade pumpkin pie my brother made today. Afterwards I started panicking, not because of the calories, but because sugar and flour and margarine are meant to increase the effects of aging. Now I'm worried about cellulite, blemishes wrinkles, age spots and all the nasty things associated with aging.

When I think about it, I didn't even enjoy the pie that much. I saw him making it. He used at least 700g of margarine! Yet I felt obligated to eat it because he'd spent all afternoon baking. As soon as the spoon hit the empty plate, I felt guilty and concerned. Right now I'm berating myself for undoing all my healthy eating. All the stuff I've read about sugar being a toxin is swirling around my head. I certainly won't be eating junk food again soon.

Perhaps I've been too influenced by Nip/Tuck, which I've recently began watching, but I don't see how people cope with aging without resorting to plastic surgery. Already I'm resolved that if I ever get severe cellulite or unsightly saggy skin I'll get surgery.

How to cope with getting old: Shift your attitude.

Don't "cope with getting old", do "embrace getting old"

It isn't something to be ashamed of, it is something to celebrate!

well, the aging process is pretty much unavoidable, but your mind & experience will aways continue to grow.  However, a daily beauty ritual of moisturizers & creams will always help you skin retain it's healthy & youthful glow! 

I like Regenerist by Olay (or you can get the Walmart Equate brand, which has the same exact ingredients & costs less).  Avon Anew is also nice--I find it quite handy for decreasing puffiness around my eyes.  Always go out with sunscreen on (especially on your face), stay away from tanning beds, limit your use of alcohol, and don't ever smoke.  Start taking care of your skin while you're young & you'll be amazed by the results. 

It's been easy for me because I continue to get better each year.

I was talking to my friend at work today who is the same age as me & she pointed out something I'd never noticed before -

We're both 24 & tease each other about being 25 this year by sayin "5 years off 30!" or "Half way to 50!" but she pointed out that NEXT year we'll be 26!

My God! That scared me! I'd never thought of turning 26. But it's not a ageing/vanity thing. It's more of a having to be grown up & responsible & how quickly time is going by.