'Cheat the Clock'

Al Francekevich/CORBIS

Help slow down the aging process by reducing your stress level.

Margaret Webb Pressler's husband, James, is 62, but the author says people often mistake him for someone a quarter-century younger. Pressler, a Washington Post reporter, was spurred by her husband's youthful looks to look more closely at the human aging process, and the result is her new book Cheat the Clock: How New Science Can Help You Look and Feel Younger.

The book examines how and why people's looks change as they get older and recommends small, simple lifestyle modifications that can help you look younger than you are. Though many people credit genetics, Pressler says good genes get less important past the age of 40 or so. "As you get older, your genes have less of an influence," she says. "You have to take care of yourself." That includes doing things like eating healthy, staying active and avoiding stress. AARP Radio host Mike Cuthbert talks to Pressler about new research, data and advice on aging and looks.

You May Also Like

• Telomere test: How fast will you age?
  
• 11 tips for a longer, healthier life
• Join AARP: Savings, resources and news for your well-being

Visit the AARP home page every day for great deals and for tips on keeping healthy and sharp