Things change. (Leisure and Aging Society).

It's a big challenge to ask someone just out of their teens to picture themselves at 80, but a new survey did just that. It found that the quest for romance and a successful career, valued so highly in the early years, may not stand the test of time. Other more inward pursuits, such as enriching our lives through reading and learning, may have more lasting value.

The Hilton Generational Time survey, sponsored by Hilton Hotels Corporation, asked Americans from four generations--Generation Y (ages 16-24), Generation X (ages 25-35), Baby Boomers (36-54) and Mature Americans (ages 55-70)--to put themselves in an imaginary time machine. All generations agreed that reading and learning would be the most valued aspect of their lives when they reached 80. Its value was nearly unchanged between Generation Y (87 percent) and Mature Americans (90 percent). Similarly, raising a family remained strong across the years, from Generation Y (82 percent) to Mature Americans (85 percent), making it a close second choice.

Recreation and tourism have seen a boon to programs that are both fun and educational. Trips that provide more than just a suntan are increasing in popularity across the ages. Consider programs that help provide opportunities for self-improvement and mental calisthenics, and rest assured that everyone is interested.