Eve when I was real young, I never bought into the then-current "Don't trust anyone over 30," or "Pepsi! For those who think young!" or any of the other crap. I have always looked to older people more than my peers as role models. Cultures throughout history have rightly respected those who are older because they have more experience and more wisdom. I loath what our culture tries to do with this subject in order to (a) try to sell stuff to avoid the inevitable, and (b) drive a wedge between the generations so as to exert more influence over the younger ones. (I hope I did not hijack your thread. If I did, say so soon & I will delete this.) Regarding your pic: The benefit of growing older is that I know when I'm doing something stupid, so now I can enjoy it.
I always looked up to the older generation too. Until I became part of it. Now I wonder sometimes, "What was I thinking?"
I've joined clubs that would have me but lots of times the other members leave after I've been around a while. When that happens I just elect myself treasurer and take their money.