life expectancy in the United States has increased by at least 30 years, from 47 in 1900 to more than 77 in 2000. Furthermore, the number of people living to the age of 100 is one of the fastest growing groups in America today. In 1965, there were approximately 3,000 centenarians. By the year 2000, 
that number had grown to more than 70,000. And census forecasts suggest that the number of centenarians will reach 1 million by the year 2050.
But there is another change underfoot … a change in attitude. William A. Sadler, PhD, a sociologist and author, explains, “Just 30 years ago, the conventional view of aging was defined by D words: decline, degeneration, disease, disability, and dependency. Old age was perceived to begin at 60 and proceed steadily downhill. But times have changed … and people are progressing after 50. Their lives are now marked by R words: renewal, rejuvenation, regeneration, reinvention, rediscovery, and redirection.”
This change in attitude and a longer lifespan render the traditional model of retirement inappropriate. Reflection and optimism are more the norm than the exception. Recent retirees are asking the questions, “How can I become a whole person? How can I make a contribution? What legacy can I leave?” Retirement is now perceived as a graduation to something new and different … and, by all accounts, more fulfilling.
Dr. Sadler refers to a “life portfolio” in describing the process by which we all integrate values, interests, commitments, and activities into our personal lives. Today, we have a wonderful opportunity to both experience fulfillment and lay a solid foundation for generations to come. BERKS ENCORE exists to assist older adults as they create a life portfolio that reflects their growing sense of self. Let us know what you want your portfolio to look like, and together we can move towards unprecedented positive aging.
