In the movie "Secondhand Lions," two eccentric Texan farmers (played by Robert Duvall and Michael Caine) use their (ill-gotten?) savings to live fuller lives, thanks in part to the persuasive powers of a young nephew (Haley Joel Osment).

Their point of view? "The actual truth is not as important as belief in ideals."

But that attitude doesn't help when they crash their biplane while doing a stunt.

The real truth is that most folks do much better if they adopt a more realistic approach — and don't try stunts — when handling finances and health.

To help you achieve a life-extending, stress-free balance in your health and finances, Dr. Roizen and "Today" show financial editor Jean Chatzky have collaborated on a new book, "Age-Proof: Living longer without running out of money or breaking a hip."

Their advice:

• Automate good habits. Start with 10,000 steps a day, with no excuses.

• Get a handle on your financial and health behaviors. Bank 15 percent of your paycheck.

• Eat foods that love you back: Lean protein, unsaturated fat, vegetables and fruit, and unprocessed grains.

• Pay yourself first. The No. 1 line on your health budget: High-quality foods. The No. 1 line on your financial budget: Saving 15 percent of your income.

• Rally a team of pros and friends to help you reach your goals.

• Offer to do the same for others.

• Organize your health and financial worlds to help you think clearly.

• Find your passion and live it.