Aging Our Way: Lessons for Living from 85 and Beyond

The stereotype of the "oldest old" (age 85 and above) in our society is of frailty and dependence, often in nursing homes. Yet 78% of those in this demographic still live in their own homes and 75% still drive. Colgate University sociologist Loe (The Rise of Viagra) reports on her research on 30 oldest old individuals in small city and rural upstate New York. She draws 13 lessons from their experiences, including "(Re) Design Your Living Space," "Resort to Tomfoolery," and "Accept and Prepare for Death." Above all, she notes that the oldest old remain very much in charge of their own lives: "They innovate. They grow and learn." Some 30% volunteer and 40% provide financial contributions to family members. Loe also stresses the importance of social capital, the network of relatives, friends, neighbors, and even paid help who sustain the elderly emotionally and practically. Loe's writing is clear, jargon-free, and warm%E2%80%94she clearly likes and often admires her subjects. She has done an excellent job in organizing her book topically and lets her subjects speak for themselves, then distills their most important points. While there are few startling revelations, there is a great deal of wisdom. (Oct.)