So many Britons now reach their 100th birthdays that the “telegram team” at the Department for Work and Pensions has had to take on extra staff. For years, one civil servant was responsible for ensuring centenarians received a birthday card from the Queen; now, seven are needed. There are currently 14,000 people over 100 in Britain – 5% more than only a year ago. (The Week)

I had a great-aunt who lived to 103. As she neared the hundred mark she lost her eyesight, but her brain was as sharp as ever. She startled me by asking me to explain how computers worked, whether I had one and how I used it. Then she pointed towards a very old photo and told me and my two sons that the photo was of her own great-aunt. It was, in fact, a favourite cat. It was a sweet and poignant moment that pointed up her own frailty but at the same time showed her interest in life.

Epicurus might have said that there is little point in living into one’s hundreds if you are a burden to those around you and have no interests or activities to keep the brain alive. Those who await only death should be allowed to vote for a civilised ending if they wish. Meanwhile, we should honour those who love life, make a contribution, and live long.