David McLain’s photos show elders living with purpose and joy  

SEATTLEBy John Wolcott

Elders living vibrant lives around the world will be celebrated in a multimedia presentation Oct. 3 at Mount St. Vincent Foundation’s 11th Annual Legacy Luncheon.

 “Finding Your Ikigai — Discover Your Reason for Being, No Matter Your Age” features images and stories captured by David McLain, an award-winning National Geographic photographer.

These elders are inspired by embracing their ikigai — their reason for getting up each morning and living their lives with purpose and joy, said Molly Swain, executive director of the Mount St. Vincent Foundation. The fundraising luncheon is one way the foundation supports residents and programs at Providence Mount St. Vincent, which provides assisted living and skilled nursing to more than 400 older adults.

“At Mount St. Vincent, we strive to help all who live here to find meaning and purpose in their lives, regardless of their stage in life or the challenges often found in aging,” Swain said.

McLain’s presentation was inspired by his global experiences in photographing a National Geographic cover story, The Secrets of Living Longer.The piece probed the profound effects of ikigai (an Okinawan term) on longevity, fulfillment and happiness for all ages.

That theme mirrors Mount St. Vincent’s mission of offering older adults a loving and inspiring home. The Mountis nationally recognized for its physical care of residents while enriching their lives with love, friendship and respect.

McLain’s presentation is an opportunity for each of us to pause and reflect on our own personal ikigai,Swain said. Beyond all the trappings of our modern world, what matters most is very evident in old age and stands the test of time — being known, caring for others and having purpose beyond oneself.”

MOUNT ST. VINCENT LEGACY LUNCHEON   When: Thursday, Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. Oct. 3Where: Sheraton Seattle Hotel, 1400 Sixth Ave.Cost: $50 per personReception: After lunch with David McLain for those donating $250 or more. Donors will receive an autographed photo print and a copy of The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.”Reservations: 206-938-6242 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. document.getElementById('cloake65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60').innerHTML = ''; var prefix = 'ma' + 'il' + 'to'; var path = 'hr' + 'ef' + '='; var addye65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60 = 'legacyluncheon' + '@'; addye65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60 = addye65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60 + 'providence' + '.' + 'org'; var addy_texte65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60 = 'legacyluncheon' + '@' + 'providence' + '.' + 'org';document.getElementById('cloake65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60').innerHTML += ''+addy_texte65504f1948baf8444cfbb42684b1c60+''; Register online: www.providence.org/pmsvlegacyluncheon 

 September 26, 2013