My lifelong commitment to older adults began with my grandmother, who lived with us for 8 years after she developed cancer, yet decided at age 75 she wanted to be on her own again, so she got an apartment where her closest friends lived. The cancer later recurred, and she spent several years in a nursing home.
My ‘Bube’ taught me to try to be open and flexible as things change in life, and that, no matter how old you are or where you are living, ‘you’re only as old as you let yourself be’!
During my 40+ year career as a doctor, patients and education have formed the foundation of my work. In addition, I was honored to serve on the United States Preventive Services Task Force and the American Board of Internal Medicine, published over 100 scientific articles and two groundbreaking books on geriatrics, and have been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards.
I am often interviewed in the national media and am sought after as an advisor, consultant, and keynote speaker. For over 20 years, I have been the editor-in-chief of Focus on Healthy Aging, a monthly newsletter for consumers.
My bottom line: We need a paradigm shift for how we—as individuals, organizations, and society—think about and prepare for aging. We need to move from unconscious ageism to a more honest aging, so that, at every age, we can have enjoyable, engaged, and meaningful lives.
What’s normal, what’s not, and what can you do about it? You’ll find practical tips on aging, myth-busters that challenge common beliefs, and exercises to help you reimagine what the second half of your life can be.
