Award-winning journalist Joan Lunden brought her sense of humor and unique perspective on life and aging to a recent breakfast at Geodis Park in Nashville, hosted by FiftyForward. The event was the kick-off for FiftyForward’s celebration and recognition of Older Americans Month, the awareness month that began in May 1963 to honor the contributions of older Americans in our lives.
Lunden received a standing ovation for her presentation during which she underscored the importance of reframing aging. She emphasized the importance of staying healthy (both physically and mentally) by doing new things to stretch your skills and improve your mental acuity. Citing statistics, Lunden noted that every eight seconds, a Baby Boomer turns 65 in our country. Globally, the population of older adults is also growing exponentially. She underscored that by 2030, the 65 and older population in America is expected to surpass 73 million. Some sources (including the United Nations) say centenarians are the fastest-growing age group in the world.
Her closing remarks left the crowd of attendees with wise and inspiring calls to action. She said you should continue to reinvent yourself and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way to challenge yourself and your brain.
In addition to her presentation, Lunden signed copies of her book, “Why Did I Come into This Room?; A Candid Conversation About Aging.” The book offers lessons she has learned with the passing of years.
Lunden’s demographic is far-reaching. She is one of America’s most recognized and trusted personalities having been the longtime host of Good Morning America. A sought-after speaker and event host throughout the country, she is also the host of the PBS television series, Second Opinion with Joan Lunden, and the Washington Post podcast series, Caring for Tomorrow.
The breakfast was generously supported by AARP Tennessee, Ingram Charities and the Nashville Soccer Club. Other top sponsors of FiftyForward Older Americans Month include Bridgestone, Concept Technology, Enchiridion Foundation, HCA Healthcare, Jackson National Life Insurance Company, the Louie M. and Betty M. Phillips Foundation, Tennessee Valley Authority, and Tivity Health.
