Can't teach an old dog new tricks? Medical evidence strongly suggests otherwise. Picking up a new trick or two is  not only possible, it's well worth it. Now, there is no need to get offended. No one is suggesting you are old, or a dog.  It is simply a point of reference. There is a need, however, to be optimistic about reducing the odds of developing  a smoking-related illness when you quit smoking after the age of 50.

The good news gets even better. Putting down the cigs for good after 50 years of age (or any age for that matter) will not only improve overall health, but many tobacco-related conditions can actually be reversed. According to the  American Heart Association, people between the ages of 60-64 who quit smoking are 10 percent less likely to die  during the next 15 years than regular smokers.

Still looking for that extra incentive to put down the old habit? Pull out a calendar and let's look at some numbers.  The Surgeon General Report states that within one to nine months after quitting, coughing and shortness of breath decrease and the lungs regain their ability to clean and moderate themselves, thereby reducing the chances of  infection. Give up smoking for a year and the excess risk of coronary heart disease becomes half that of a regular smoker's. After 10 years of being cigarette-free, the risk of lung, mouth, throat and other cancers (including esophagus, cervix, bladder and pancreas) are reduced by almost half. Best of all, the risk of coronary heart disease is the same  as a non-smoker's after 15 years of a smoke-free lifestyle.

These benefits not only translate into reduced pain and suffering, but they also reduce the chances of being burdened by preventable medical bills and the arbitrary expense of cigs. Getting 15 years of life back is impressive enough, but knowing the quality of life during those 15+ years will be enjoyable is a gratifying incentive.

So before you decide you're too old to quit, or that it's too much of a hassle, take some time to review the facts and beneficial aspects of doing so. Whether it's the need to be there for family or purely out of self-interest, the reasons and benefits of giving up smoking are almost innumerable; regardless of age. Set the example and show the younger ones there's a thing or two they can learn from you.