Better to be seen than viewed

Meaning

A slightly cynical joke usually referring to old age or funeral arrangements. It means you are still alive enough to be seen in public.

Dark, funny

Used in a sentence

• How are you holding up at this age? Well, it is better to be seen than viewed.
• He always shows up to the family reunion saying it is better to be seen than viewed.
• Keep your chin up, it is always better to be seen than viewed.