We are warned of an imminent global ecological catastrophe that can only be averted by draconian measures, such as reducing the global population. The thought of such measures may contribute to reducing the value of the life of particularly older people, who are considered a liability to the economy. Realizing that (1) rather than heading for an imminent catastrophe, (2) casualties from natural disasters and air pollution are significantly fewer than 100 years ago, and (3) life expectancy and quality of life have increased even in the poorest countries, puts human life in a more positive light, and sees older people with their wealth of experience more as an asset than a liability, supported by their significant socio-economic contribution to society. This then is an impetus to seek ways to improve the quality of life of the older person, and here it is suggested, using as an example the benefits of exercise for muscle and cognitive function, that regular exercise can be an effective means to do so.