If you consider whether or not it would be a good thing to live beyond the normal averages in the mid-70's there are some who say "I don't really want to live that long." This argument usually is based on the ideas that either it's time to get going and make way for the next generation or that a long life would be boring or unfulfilling. If the usual infirmities of age are what we can expect, then it is certainly reasonable that someone might not want to continue with diminished mental or physical capacities.

If however, we can maintain good physical, mental and spiritual health and have sufficient financial resources to live without anxiety, then living long is a great idea. Think of starting a new career, maybe volunteering or getting into a new artistic or creative activity. The wisdom of the elders was revered in times past. It's time to once again value the voice of the elders as one of the most important repositories of practical knowledge on how to live long and live well.