Article continues below advertisementMichael Pessman has spent much of his life pursuing what many overlook: the beauty, dignity, and possibility in growing older. With a master's degree in gerontology and years of experience in Alzheimer's research, clinical trial recruitment, and community outreach, Pessman is both a student and an advocate of the aging process. His mission is clear: aging does not have to be a negative story."I've always admired older people," Pessman says, reflecting on the love and guidance he received from his grandparents.