Another method of learning from people who have lived long lives is by paying attention to their sage advice, characterized by being wise through reflection, prudence and with using good judgement. Quotes by the aged can tell the story of a lifetime of knowledge seeking, in just a few words. A humorous, sardonic literary style with plenty of irony often accompanies the advice.

Some example quotes by well known oldsters:

“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” Mark Twain

“By the time you’re 80 years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it.” George Burns

“Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” Betty Friedan

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill

Quotes are a powerful tool for teaching and learning. They can be creative, inspiring, positive and even funny, but they all serve to teach us something. The examples listed will help to break down stereotypes about ageing and remind us of how important it is to treat all people with dignity and respect.

Career success knows no age or number. Your career will be judged by the content of your character and your service to society as a whole. Humanitarian work and the acts of kindness, compassion and empathy will be long remembered and will outlast monetary successes. You can continue to flourish at any age and your knowledge will live on and be passed down to future generations.