Autor sa stal profesorom, pretože ho jeho vysokoškolský mentor inšpiroval k tomu, aby sa venoval tomu, čo ho baví. Verí v silu myšlienok a v to, že učenie a životný entuziazmus treba zdieľať s ľuďmi všetkých vekových kategórií. Jeho výskum na pomedzí histórie a gerontológie mu otvoril dvere k verejným diskusiám a snahe o spoločné blaho. Najväčšie uspokojenie mu však prináša mentorstvo a zdieľanie životných ciest s ostatnými.
By providing a historical perspective on society's conceptions of aging-and its effects on human lives-Achenbaum's work offers valuable insights for historians, sociologists, gerontologists, and others interested in the grayingof America.
The book delves into the evolution of social security in America, highlighting its foundational purpose as envisioned by Franklin Roosevelt and its transformation into a vital yet challenged institution. It examines the complex interplay of demographic, political, and economic factors that have led to dwindling support for social security. Advocating for a re-visioning of the program, the author emphasizes the need for a universal minimum standard of living and encourages a broader dialogue on government responsibilities in an aging society, drawing lessons from history to inform future policies.