Book review: Living Agelessly by Linda Altoonian

Living Agelessly is written by Linda Altoonian, author of the Dear Ageless column, which appears in several journals, and the AP Wire Service. This book came about in response to the many letters she has received to the column, plus her own experiences on aging, and the elder care of her parents.

I have to admit, the book is not what I expected, only in that I found the topics rather eclectic. However, once I settled into the fact that it was a response to common concerns she has received over the years, I found it very interesting.

Who is this book directed at?

This book is not specifically targeted to women, rather it is for Baby Boomers, both male and female. Ms. Altoonian describes Boomers in the following way:

Every year, 4 million baby boomers turn 50, but we refuse to be downsized or ignored. Controlling over 48 percent of all discretionary purchases, baby boomers are the most educated, proactive, and affluent consumer group in North America. We will read, do, and buy whatever it takes to remain as young and healthy as possible, for as long as possible.

She then goes onto say that

Our attitude about aging is different from any previous generation – and attitude dictates how successfully a person will grow.

The main focus of the book, therefore, is about creating a healthy attitude about aging in all aspects of our lives.

What topics are covered?

As mentioned, the topics are quite varied. The following subjects are covered:

• mind-body-spirit connection;
• diet;
• exercise;
• travel;
• volunteering;
• grandparenting;
• age proofing your home;
• driving;
• scams and frauds;
• personal safety;
• depression, fear, grief;
• gratitude.

Is it a read cover-to-cover book, or a reference book?

The book is structured more like a reference book. The Introduction describes the contents of each chapter in a fair amount of detail. Based on that, you can flip to the chapter that is relevant to you at the time. For example, if you are planning on travelling, that chapter offers practical advice on how to travel safely, and what your various travel options are.

Is the advice relevant to a global audience?

I found that is the one short-coming of this book, as it is directed towards a United States audience. Specifically when she is talking about legislation, resources, and volunteering opportunities. However, there is enough generic information surrounding the audience specific advice to allow the reader to look up the equivalent resources in their own country.

Will this book assist me with elder care?

Yes, although sometimes the lines are blurred as to when she is speaking about taking care of ourselves versus taking care of our parents. But, she definitely talks about topics relevant to the 70 Plus crowd, such as:

• making the decision to give up driving;
• age proofing the home against accidents;
• challenges associated with a failing body and mind.

This is a book of action. Each chapter starts off with a letter from her column, and Ms. Altoonian’s response to that letter. She then describes the philosophy behind that topic, but the meat of each chapter is practical advice on how to put that philosophy into action.

I found the advice very beneficial, and I will be returning to the book when I have specific plans, such as travel or volunteering, in mind.