Forever Young

Have you ever heard the song Forever Young? If so, which version pops into your head? It’s no surprise that this beloved title has inspired multiple renditions, each bringing its own unique flavor and lyrics, performed by artists across generations.

First is Bob Dylan’s Forever Young, released in 1974. This gentle folk-rock ballad feels like a heartfelt letter, filled with wishes and hopes for a bright future.

Then, in the ’80s, Alphaville burst onto the scene with their synth-pop anthem Forever Young. With soaring melodies, the song balances a mix of hope and nostalgia, capturing the dream of eternal youth while addressing the fear of time slipping away. You might recognize these lyrics:

Forever young,
I want to be forever young.
Do you really want to live forever?
Forever, and ever.

In 1988, Rod Stewart released his own Forever Young. Inspired by Dylan’s song, Stewart’s version blends rock and pop elements, and its upbeat rhythm gives it a celebratory vibe.

Finally, we can’t forget Jay-Z’s Forever Young, released in 2009 — a powerful remix of Alphaville’s classic Forever Young with a hip-hop edge!

The Timeless Quest for Eternal Youth
But like these songs, the desire to stay “forever young” has been around for thousands of years. From legends of the Fountain of Youth to Cleopatra’s famed beauty rituals, humans have long chased ways to defy aging. Ancient Chinese emperors sought the “Elixir of Life,” while explorers like Ponce de León scoured the Americas in search of magical springs that could turn back time.

Today, the quest for youth continues, but in new forms. Current science-based tips for healthy aging  include regular exercise, healthy eating, prioritizing mental and physical health as well as maintaining strong social connections.

The Rise of Pseudoscience in the Anti-Aging Quest
Some, however, take it a step further, turning to pseudoscience to stop the clock. Yes, there are dietary supplements,  exercise regimes, diets that promise to increase longevity albeit without any supporting science. Other ways to enhance  longevity include vitamin IV drip therapy, therapeutic plasma exchange and hyperbaric oxygen therapy — technologies marketed as cutting-edge anti-aging solutions but lacking solid evidence.

Still Just a Dream 
The dream of staying forever young remains as captivating today as it has throughout history. Like the songs, the quest for eternal youth may take different forms, but the longing to hold onto all the benefits of youth never fades.

For now, though, growing old is a reality for those fortunate enough to live long lives!

And one thing that never gets old? Voting in the annual Fat Bear contest!

Happy reading,

Enjoy the weekend!

Best,
Suzanne
Suzanne Daniels, Ph.D.
AEPC President
P.O. Box 1416
Birmingham, MI 48012
Office: (248) 792-2187
Email: [email protected]