‘Never Say Die’: A Motto Americans Live By?

The Takeaway

In her new book, “Never Say Die: The Myth and Marketing of the New Old Age,”  author Susan Jacoby sets out to debunk the myths that it’s possible to avoid the hardships of old age. At the same time, she argues, by accepting death and aging it is easier to retain one’s dignity.

What do you think? Is living longer always better? How do you define successful aging?

The first wave of baby boomers turns 65 this year and they will find themselves confronting some of the difficulties of aging in a culture that says that the only way to age gracefully is to stay as young as possible. Susan Jacoby shares her perspective on getting old.

Will you support The World with a monthly donation?

Every day, reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you. We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.

Make a gift today, and you’ll help us unlock a matching gift of $67,000!