As a nurse I can safely say, people who stay active throughout their life, but especially as they get older, stay far healthier, and are far less debilitated when problems do occur. People who are overweight, fool themselves into thinking they are doing okay as they get older. However, when a significant problem shows up, it can literally be the difference between being able to recover fully and being debilitated for the rest of one's life. When you are ill, suddenly the extra weight is a big problem. Also, there is a clear difference in mental acuity as you age related to physical activity. We now have studies showing a sedentary lifestyle is associated with Alzheimer's. Get out and enjoy the ride!