‘Ageless Heroes’ Shows Value of Experience

Debate over the future of Social Security frequently includes a reference to a coming glut of baby boomer retirees, who, oh dear, are going to be living longer than previous generations.

Some might read a subtext in such a debate that echoes a pervasive attitude in our youth-oriented culture: Young people contribute to society, old people don’t.

Multi-award-winning Olympic filmmaker Bud Greenspan doesn’t buy it. His PBS program “Ageless Heroes” is a timely reminder that vitality, value and creativity don’t die at 60, 70 or beyond.

Meant to inspire, and succeeding, this hour profiles a number of well-known and lesser-known men and women ages 65 and older, who continue to follow their passions, contribute to the lives of others and grow as human beings.

Eartha Kitt, 71, whose stellar career as a singer, dancer and actress faded for a time during the late ‘60s because of her anti-Vietnam War activism, is still a sultry show-stopper.

Joe Paterno, the respected 70-year-old head coach at Penn State, is as energetic, focused and committed as a man half his age.

Helen Thomas, 77, the fearless White House bureau chief for UPI, is still rattling presidents with hard questions; she began with John F. Kennedy.

Some others profiled: Andrew Young, 65, civil rights leader and former United Nations Ambassador, continuing as a force for change; jazz great Billy Taylor, 76, who has never stopped creating and inspiring; 78-year-old dancer-choreographer Merce Cunningham, finding new, high-tech creative avenues; and Dodo Cheney, 81, a tiger on the tennis court and a national champion.

Greenspan inspires but avoids Hallmark-moment sentimentality, linking the stories with quiet, considered narration that underscores the message that there is no expiration date on curiosity, a youthful spirit and an abiding interest in life and challenge.

* “Ageless Heroes” airs at 9 tonight on KCET-TV Channel 28. It has been rated TV-PG (may be unsuitable for young children).