The Legacy Project Launches Website

October 3, 2011

Lessons from the oldest Americans are now available on a Cornell web site. The Legacy Project began in 2004, when BCTR affiliate Karl Pillemer (Professor of Human Development) started collecting the practical advice for living from America's elders. Using a number of different methods, his research team systematically gathered over 1,200 responses to the question: 'What are the most important lessons you have learned over the course of your life?' People from across the country in their 70s and beyond shared their wisdom for living. Their advice ranges from how to be happy on a day-to-day basis, the secrets to a successful marriage, tips on raising children, ways to have a fulfilling career, strategies for dealing with illness and loss, and how to grow old fearlessly and well. A book on the project is scheduled to appear this fall. Many lessons (and information about the project) are available at The Legacy Project website and people can follow the project on Facebook. People age 60 and over can also contribute their life lessons on the site.