There's a huge interest in extending life expectancy. We doubled the average lifespan around 1950 but we didn't actually improve the quality of life. I don't want to live forever. A nice age to die, around 78, is now considered too young to die. Whatever. The flip of side of this essay could easily read — expecting your children to be your caregiver isn't wise. I have two wonderful kids who I know love me, but I simply do not want them to take care of me.