This diploma thesis is theoretical and is dedicated to old age and ageing. The aim of this diploma thesis is to summarize existing knowledge of old age and to view this final stage of human life from different perspectives and in various context. It is based on periodization of human life. It deals with the process of ageing and its progress, it lists definitions and theories on ageing and also discusses possible premises of longevity. It attempts to define old age and lists myths and prejudices associated with old age. It describes old age from different perspectives of multiple science fields, such as philosophy, biology, medicine, psychiatry, psychology, demography, sociology and social work. It depicts science fields concerned with old age and points out selected aspects of life that can influence elderly person, such as financial situation, housing situation, education, leisure activies, interpersonal relations. It also mentions possible crisis situations during old age, violence against elderly people and system of care of elderly people in the Czech republic. It explains the importance of adaptation during old age and outlines possible image of end of life. At the end of the thesis a set of recommendations for happy old age is included.