We are approaching a watershed moment in human history. In just a few years, the number of Americans over 60 will surpass the number of children under 15. By the time our children reach old age, living to 100 will be commonplace.
Rather than perceiving this as good news, most people respond to extended longevity with discussions about coping with or halting the aging process. Yet, to the extent that people arrive at old age mentally sharp, physically fit, and financially secure, long-lived societies will thrive.

Professor Laura Carstensen argues that among the most pressing needs of the modern world is the development of “longevity science.” Science and technology offer alternatives to catastrophic predictions about societies that are overburdened by frail elders. Advances in science can form the basis of a culture in which we improve quality of life at all ages, and psychological science must be an essential part of that process.

Dr. Carstensen will address these important issues during the December Breakfast Briefing, a monthly business forum that features prominent thought leaders, CEOs, professors and authors who share their expertise and research to help solve critical issues and improve organizations’ effectiveness. For over 20 years, professionals from Silicon Valley and around the globe have taken advantage of the over 200 sessions and the video store of over 150 of the most recent and impacting sessions.

Date and Time: Wednesday, December 9, 2009
8:00-9:00 am

Location: Faculty Club, main dining room

Contact: Cindy Williams ([email protected])
Stanford Breakfast Briefings
Office of Public Affairs
450 Serra Mall
Bldg 170, 1st floor
Stanford, CA 94305-2040