The "3rd Age" is the emerging language for the "mature" workforce and general population, and typically refers to individuals in their fifties, sixties, and seventies. The term grew out of the fact that the average life span over the past 100 years has increased 20 to 30 years. This additional life stage is sometimes referred to as the "bonus years." The increasing use of the term "3rd Age" in our society recognizes the growing interest in being more proactive about planning the later stage career and retirement phase of life.