You might scoff at the idea of a Virtual Dementia Tour. It's hard to believe that such a condition can be simulated. But this writer guarantees you won't be laughing after you experience it.

Plus: "I think we're very bad [at] writing about people becoming old, and the word retirement implies letting go," says author Nicci Gerrard. "It's not the end — it's a new stage of your life."

More below on how literary characters are redefining retirement. 

Highlighted Stories

Survey says: It's time to throw out stereotypes on aging

National Geographic and the AARP teamed up to conduct a survey exploring how Americans perceive aging as we emerge from COVID.
 

Researchers focused on asking people like you questions that span a wide range of issues that confront us as we age — "from health and finances to attitudes about happiness, home, optimism and even dying."

For the sake of consistency, they asked Americans from age 18 into their 90s the same questions, just to see how opinions might vary as life goes on.

"No single sentence can capture the gist of all that people told us," writes Sari Harrar, "but we can say with confidence that most prevalent opinions and stereotypes of aging were proven wrong."

Overall, life is good — especially those over 60. More here. 

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Next Avenue is a website from PBS stations that inspires America’s 50+ generation to live the most vibrant and meaningful life possible. Our website features thousands of articles designed to help you make the most of your life's second half.

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