The Upside of Aging (ePub)

The Upside of Aging: How Long Life Is Changing the World of
Health, Work, Innovation, Policy and Purpose explores a titanic
shift that will alter every aspect of human existence, from the
jobs we hold to the products we buy to the medical care we receive
- an aging revolution underway across America and the world. Moving
beyond the stereotypes of dependency and decline that have defined
older age, The Upside of Aging reveals the vast opportunity
and potential of this aging phenomenon, despite significant policy
and societal challenges that must be addressed. The book's
chapter authors, all prominent thought-leaders, point to a
reinvention and reimagination of our older years that have critical
implications for people of all ages.

With a positive call to action, the book illuminates the upside
for health and wellness, work and volunteerism, economic growth,
innovation and education. The authors, like the baby boom
generation itself, posit new ways of thinking about aging, as
longevity and declining birthrates put the world on track for a
mature population of unprecedented size and significance. Among
topics they examine are:

* The emotional intelligence and qualities of the aging brain
that science is uncovering, "senior moments"
notwithstanding.

* The new worlds of genomics, medicine and technology that are
revolutionizing health care and wellness.

* The aging population's massive impact on global markets,
with enormous profit potential from an explosion in products and
services geared toward mature consumers.

* New education paradigms to meet the needs and aspirations of
older people, and to capitalize on their talents.

* The benefits that aging workers and entrepreneurs bring to
companies, and the crucial role of older people in philanthropy and
society.

* Tools and policies to facilitate financial security for longer
and more purposeful lives.

* Infrastructure and housing changes to create livable cities for
all ages, enabling "aging in place" and continuing
civic contribution from millions of older adults.

* The opportunities and potential for intergenerational
engagement and collaboration.

The Upside of Aging defines a future that differs profoundly
from the retirement dreams of our parents and grandparents, one
that holds promise and power and bears the stamp of a generation
that has changed every stage of life through which it has
moved.