What, if anything, is the secret to extending life?
Does our society do enough for its oldest citizens? Do you believe there is a “secret” to extending life? Or is life expectancy more random, determined largely by luck, fate or a “plan” ordained by a higher power? Ms. Tanaka said the secret to living so long is “Being myself.” Do you think there is a “trick” to living a long, full life, such as having strong friendships, a spiritual or religious practice, engaging hobbies and passions, a healthy diet or a specific mind-set or disposition? Or is it simply good genetics? Is it a combination of these factors? According to the article, Ms. Tanaka kept her sharp wit in part by reading newspapers, doing math problems and playing board games. How conscious are you about how your actions today may affect you in old age? Do you do anything to keep your mind and health in top shape?
Do you ever think about what your life might look like several decades down the road? Would you want to live well into your 100s like Ms. Tanaka? Why or why not?
In the article, Shinichi Oshima, the president of the Japan Foundation for Aging and Health, said, “it’s important to build social systems in which elderly people are fully accepted and can carry out a prosperous life.” Do you think society respects its oldest citizens? Do we do all we can to care for them and help them thrive? If not, what could we do better? Do you spend a lot of time around older adults? How would you describe their lives and personalities? What do you think are their secrets to living so long?
Do you ever think about what your life might look like several decades down the road? Would you want to live well into your 100s like Ms. Tanaka? Why or why not?
In the article, Shinichi Oshima, the president of the Japan Foundation for Aging and Health, said, “it’s important to build social systems in which elderly people are fully accepted and can carry out a prosperous life.” Do you think society respects its oldest citizens? Do we do all we can to care for them and help them thrive? If not, what could we do better? Do you spend a lot of time around older adults? How would you describe their lives and personalities? What do you think are their secrets to living so long?
