Aging Wisely: Life from Fifty to Seventy-Five Years

by Viola B. Mecke

No information available at this time. Author will provide once available.

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 12, 2022

Reviews

[Steve Kingsbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I'm early in the aged part of my journey it seemed prudent to read this book to see if there is additional wisdom or guidance that would be helpful. The book has a lot of good information that is beneficial for everyone in the senior category. Thankfully we have prepared well (a number of good, intentional decisions combined with several fortunate outcomes) and are about as well prepared as possible.

The great value of this book, in addition to the wise guidance provided, is the gentle descriptive of how losing control of your life will look and feel. This is an area where planning and preparation will yield great benefit and peace of mind. This reality also provides good motivation to put in the effort needed to maintain your physical and mental well-being.

[Bonnie Marie Le · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found it too clinical in nature. As if I was reading a medical journal or textbook. Lots of research findings, studies and citations. Would have liked to hear more helpful hints relayed in a simpler way.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Viola Mecke not only draws insights from a professional point of view but also from her firsthand experiences. She is Ph.D. holder in clinical psychology and has spent her life trying to understand relationships. Her wealth of experience, more than four decades, in research, private practice and teaching sets her apart and piques readers interest into knowing how to age wisely. Life’s challenges can be daunting but having a guide to navigate through each birthday is pure bliss. We all need wisdom and insights that can shape our lives positively and Mecke does an exemplary job detailing that in the book. I love how she does not generalize experiences because each one is unique.
People past half the century mark are said to have entered their golden years. A lot of shifts begin to happen both in the physical realm and other areas such as cognitive, social, emotional, and psychological aspects. Mecke categorizes the specific timeline where each challenge creeps in and the necessary adjustments that need to be made. In the range of 50-65 years, emotional and physical challenges become overwhelming since children are grown and most are independent already. In the mid-60s and 70s retirement kicks in and for most people health complications are evident. In the late 70s and early 80s, the author terms it as the ‘age of compassion’ where giving back to community is the primary agenda as one loses interest in their initial preferred passions. The author discusses beyond 85 years but the title suggests to end at 75 is down side I thought will disorient readers.
While the author offers insights to aging individuals, the young can also learn valuable lessons about older people in their lives. Aging can be accompanied by a lot of emotional turmoil. Understanding feelings is like wine, it gets better with time. This is one book that will empower you to view yourself in a positive light and give you an opportunity to self-reflect. One realizes getting old can be accompanied with a touch of grace. If you are wondering how you can age well, then this is perfect read, which can be enjoyed in a group or as an individual.

[Aditya · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Aging Wisely, Viola B. Mecke provides practical advice on how to age gracefully and maintain a high quality of life in one's later years. Mecke, drawing from her experience as a geriatrician, focuses on the importance of staying active and engaged mentally and physically, cultivating relationships with caregivers, and planning for the future.

Although I am not close to the age of 50, this book gave me close insights into how to find and craft happiness for my elders. I appreciate this book very much and I thank the author for writing this book and blessing us with the knowledge of peace.

Overall, Aging Wisely is an invaluable guide for seniors and their loved ones looking to navigate the challenges of aging with grace and dignity. Mecke's approachable writing style and wealth of experience make this book highly recommended.

Thank you
Happy Reading

[Donna Emperador · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest and helpful approach to aging

Aging Wisely is a quick but useful read for anyone ages 50 and up. The author breaks down aging into stages and helps the reader understand what to expect at each stage, assess their emotions, and find beneficial ways to cope with changes in abilities and situation. She addresses issues such as illness, gradual giving up of independence, and loneliness.

As a person in the earlier stage of aging, I found it fascinating to compare my experiences to those of my mother, who is in one of the later stages. I plan on sharing it with her to help guide her through dealing with the recent death of my dad, selling her home, and downsizing.

The book is written in a very down to earth tone, making you feel like you are having a conversation with a friend.

[hugo santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional help for aging wisely.

A most read for those of us getting into the 70s. An excellent guide and suggestions for effectively aging happily.