This report explains the many physical and cognitive benefits that older people gain when they provide service to others, and the broad social and economic opportunities that derive from their contributions as they age with purpose. “The Power of Purposeful Aging: Culture Change and the New Demography” cites deeply ingrained negative stereotypes as the roadblock to purposeful aging. 

The report stems from the 2016 Purposeful Aging Summit in Los Angeles—convened with the support of the John Templeton Foundation—where thought leaders from public policy, business, academia, philanthropy, and media discussed reframing perceptions of aging in the 21st century. They discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by population aging in our communities, the nation, and the world. They considered approaches to broadly engaging older adults in beneficial service. They urged the media, entertainment, and marketing industries to promulgate realistic portrayals of aging today and into the future. 

Learn more about the Center for the Future of Aging.