Reflecting 10 years of actual retirement experience, the author attempts to prove that older people can live interesting dynamic lives right to the last moment. The book, with its conversational, step-by-step style, has been written for anybody over 50. It presents retirement as a "stepping out" rather than a "stepping down"; the solid realities of retirement are discussed, pitfalls and sorrows as well as joys. The presentation evolves from four retirement stages: (1) pioneering stage (making and executing plans), (2) progressive stage (active economical, recreational, and sociological competition), (3) retentive stage (period of fulfillment and spiritual well-being), and (4) distributive stage (distributing of assets). Numerous retirement aspects are covered--choosing a place to live, selecting the right bank and doctor, financial statements and budgets, insurance, wills, employment, hobbies, traveling, sex after 65, and grandparental role. Throughout the book the reader is shown that life's motivations of self-preservation, money, romance, and recognition do not change but the emphasis may change. The development of a healthy mental attitude is discussed--helping others, delaying the aging process, lifetime education, and coping with loneliness and depression. Likewise, the author advocates the importance of a religious "second wind" to happy retirement. (EA)