Would I Want to Live to 150 Years Old?

The idea of living to 150 years old has always sparked curiosity and debate. If you had the choice and the means to stop aging at around 75, and maintain good health for the following 75 years, would it be worth it?

Thinking Through the Pros and Cons

For some, the possibilities of living beyond 75 years seem appealing. Extended longevity would mean more time for interpersonal relationships, professional pursuits, and personal hobbies. However, for others, it could spell extended suffering and a diminished quality of life.

Pros and Cons

**Pros:** - Additional Time for Joy and Fulfillment: Having more years to explore new interests, travel, and spend time with loved ones. - Wisdom and Experience: Accumulating immense wisdom and experiencing the world in a more profound way. - Economic Stability: Adequate financial resources could provide peace of mind and security.

**Cons:** - Diminished Physical Abilities: Even if you remain healthy, the physical limitations of being "past your prime" can be challenging. - Dependence on Retrieval Aids: The necessity of using adult diapers can be embarrassing and inconvenient. - Lack of Vitality: Once you can no longer pursue the activities that bring you joy, life may feel stagnant.

Personal Views from a Survivor’s Perspective

I personally wouldn't be enthusiastic about the idea of living to 150 years old, especially in the current system with so much suffering. For me, the concept of eternal life in a simpler, more peaceful environment would be more appealing than living through more years of misery and physical decline.

Life Experiences

Looking back, I have faced numerous adversities in my life. Despite enduring endless suffering, my yearning for peace and rest increases with each passing day. Experiences such as childhood molestation, verbal and physical abuse, and sexual assault have left a profound impact on my psyche. Despite medical diagnoses for a range of physical and mental health conditions, the emotional trauma continues to determine my outlook on life.

Physical and Mental Health

I have been diagnosed with a myriad of physical conditions, including Crohn's disease, lupus, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative disc disease, vasculitis, and Sjogren's syndrome. Additionally, I have a long history of mental health issues, including major depression, social anxiety, CPTSD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

These conditions make each day a struggle, and the prospect of living to 150 years with them seems daunting. I believe that life is meant to be experienced in its fullest form, with the ability to joyfully engage with the world around us. When our abilities to contribute and derive pleasure from our experiences diminish, the thought of continuing to exist may lose its appeal.

Final Thoughts

The desire to extend life indefinitely may be a common one, but it's important to consider the quality of life that such an extension would bring. If living another 30-40 years without further suffering is a possibility, it might indeed be a worthwhile trade. However, the existence of suffering and the longing for peace may make the decision more complex.

In essence, the decision to extend life would depend on individual circumstances, preferences, and the ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout the additional years. For many, the promise of a life free from pain and suffering may outweigh the benefits of an extended existence.