This invaluable guide will help the historical number of eightysomethings live fulfilled happy lives long into their twilight years. Personal stories illustrate how real people in their eighties are living and how they make sense of their lives. Old age is not what it used to be. For the first time ever most people in the United States are living into their eighties. The first guide of its kind Eightysomethings changes our understanding of old age with an upbeat and emotionally savvy view of the uncharted territory of the last stage of life. With insight and humor Dr. Katharine Esty describes the series of dramatic and difficult transitions that eightysomethings usually experience and how despite their losses they so often find themselves unexpectedly happy. Living into ones eighties doesnt have to mean declining health and loneliness Dr. Esty shows readers how to embraceand thrive duringthe later stages of life. Based on her more than 120 interviews around the country Esty explores the lives of ordinary eightysomethingstheir attitudes activities secrets worries purposes and joys. Esty adds her wisdom and perspective to this multidimensional look at being old as a social psychologist a practicing psychotherapist and as an eightyfouryearold widow living in a retirement community. Eightysomethings is a mustread for people in their eighties and also for their families. Adult childrenoften bewildered by their aging parentsneed a wise guide like Eightysomethings to help them navigate their parents last stage of life with realworld guidelines and conversation starters. Readers young and old alike will find this firstofitskind book eyeopening comforting and filled with practical tips. show more