LEGACY PROJECT

The Blue Zones Legacy Project has two significant components. First, it provides the opportunity for kids to interact with someone from a different generation to learn more about the meaning and importance of legacy—both on an individual level and generational level. Second, it provides the opportunity for kids to be involved with real scientific research by sharing their findings through this Web site with scientists at the National Institute on Aging.

The Legacy Project empowers students to identify and interview "super seniors" in their communities, much the same way the Blue Zones team is interviewing centenarians. This project will help students discover the behavioral practices that contribute to healthier and longer lives. We expect that the seniors will pass on wisdom to the younger generation to follow and emulate.

To assist with this Project, we've chosen to utilize the Big6™ Information Problem-Solving Skills. With this approach, students will identify healthy people 75 years of age or older who have retained their vitality– perhaps a neighbor, a relative, or a family friend. Students will interview these "super seniors" and record relevant information.

While students gather useful data, they are indirectly gaining an appreciation of elders and of aging successfully. This project will positively influence students' views towards the aging process and will show students that living a healthy, active life is a valuable and attainable goal for all people.