The Lie We've Been Told About Ageing

The lie goes something like: that after a certain age, life becomes smaller, less exciting, less meaningful and less joyful.

Yet when I look around, I see people who seem to become more themselves as they grow older.

They may have more wrinkles, more aches and pains, and more stories of loss. But they also seem to possess something precious:
perspective, authenticity and a deeper appreciation for life.

Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Kerry Burnight, a gerontologist who has spent more than three decades studying ageing and working with people in their 80s, 90s and beyond.

What she discovered surprised me.

The people who thrive in later life are not necessarily the healthiest or the luckiest. Instead, they cultivate what Kerry calls Joyspan.

Most of us have heard of lifespan (how long we live) and healthspan (how long we remain healthy).

Joyspan asks a different question:

In our conversation we explore purpose, resilience, relationships, playfulness, contribution and the surprising choices available to us as we age.

One idea particularly resonated with me:

The goal is not to stay young.

The goal is to become fully ourselves.

If you are approaching retirement, already retired, supporting ageing parents, or simply curious about what a vibrant elderhood might look like, I think you’ll enjoy this conversation.

And if someone comes to mind while reading this, please share it with them.

The world needs more inspiring examples of what ageing can be.

Watch the full interview here: