Can we change the culture and elevate beneficial purpose by reinventing society’s views on aging?

That’s the question The Milken Institute, supported by the John Templeton Foundation, sought to answer in May 2014, when it convened a group of prominent thought leaders from academia, media, business and the faith and nonprofit communities to consider how society views aging — and how to change those views.

In a new report, Milken Institute President and Encore.org board member Paul Irving wrote,  “We believe that encouraging and enabling purposeful lives has never been more crucial. . . . The growing aging population provides fertile ground to realize this goal. By engaging older people in constructive work, volunteerism and civic contribution, we can enrich lives and promote a better future for all.”