Legacy And Love Take Priority For Aging Americans, Shows New Survey Of What People Are Leaving Behind

Legacy And Love Take Priority For Aging Americans, Shows New Survey Of What People Are Leaving Behind

More than half of Americans care about the mark they will leave on the world, and even more are concerned about the impression they leave on their loved ones (80%), according to a new survey.

The poll of 2,000 adults found that over half (54%) of respondents say they want to leave a positive legacy on this earth, and, as expected, their age may be a factor.

Regarding how getting older has shifted people’s mindsets, eight in 10 have noticed a difference in the way they think as they age (82%).

One respondent shared that they no longer “sweat the small stuff,” while another realized that “time is the real currency”. Another said they’re making a point to “fit more in life each day.”

As they’ve gotten older, 61% appreciate little things more and 53% take time to savor good moments. Half of the respondents appreciate the beauty in life more and 45% say they’re ensuring that they make every day count.

The survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Ethos found that the average American thinks about getting older about five times a week—although one in five revealed they think about it at least once a day (18%).

When they think about aging, the top goal for half of respondents is to remain close with friends and family, above all else.

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Other common desires are wanting to watch their family grow (42%), leaving things behind for their loved ones (36%) and leaving their family in a good financial place (35%).

Nearly 6 in ten people surveyed have received a sentimental item passed down from a family member. Answers ranged from a vintage family photo album, to their great grandfather’s watch that he carried in wartime, which is personally engraved. Another said they received a handmade quilt passed down from their mother which always reminds them of her warmth and care.

To carry on the tradition, 59% will leave something behind for their family. However, just half admit they’ve talked with their loved ones about what happens when they’re gone.

“Just 45% of adults revealed they’ve spoken about their ‘last wishes’ with a loved one,” said Nichole Myers from Ethos. “Whether or not you are a parent, it’s a good time to start thinking about your ties to the people around you and the legacy you want to leave for them.”

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28% of those who avoided the family talk about the end of their life said it’s because they don’t want to think about it. 25% said it hasn’t come up naturally, and another quarter haven’t done it because they don’t think it’s time for that conversation yet.

On average, respondents think conversations about what happens after their passing should happen at about 53 years old, but half think it should happen sooner.

SURVEY EXAMPLES OF WHAT PEOPLE WILL LEAVE FOR THEIR FAMILIES:

Money
Inheritance
A car
Jewelry
Heirloom furniture
Sports card collection
House
Lasting memories
Strong values
Stocks
Pictures
Life insurance
Artwork