Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Ageless Aging: A Woman’s Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan

Rate this book
The definitive women’s guide to live better longer

We are in the midst of a longevity revolution and women are leading the way, living an average of six years longer than men. If you’re already a 50-year old woman, chances are you will live an average of 35 more years.

On top of that, women comprise 80% of centenarians, now the fastest growing segment of the world’s population. But despite these incredibly hopeful statistics showing how women are living longer, women are not necessarily living well, typically spending the last 14 years of their lives in a cascade of poor health. Yet current research tells us that it doesn’t have to be that way: up to 90% of your health and longevity is within your control, rather than at the mercy of the genes you were born with. The reality is that most women are not taking advantage of the knowledge that could lead to them living better longer.

Ageless Aging presents a pioneering new way for women to feel youthful, energetic, and vital while gaining wisdom, resilience, and experience. It provides a holistic action plan based on leading science that helps women take advantage of the scientific, medical, psychological, and spiritual tools, tips, and advice available to them as they thrive in the second half of life. Sections include cutting-edge information on the body—fitness, food as medicine, sleep, and hormones—and the science of living longer. It explains the truth about the body’s role in the recipe for longevity, debunks long-held myths around healthcare and health products, and presents the relatively new concept of “precovery.”

With invaluable input and insider information from the top experts across many disciplines, Ageless AgingIwill answer how you can:

-Make use of your longevity bonus years with maximum impact and purpose
-Learn the truth about your hormones and their impact on ageless aging
-Clear up the confusion about nutrition and supplementation
-Supercharge your immunity and find more energy in every day
-Take steps to potentially prevent or delay cognitive decline
-Explore key strategies for improving your sleep
-Successfully navigate the healthcare system
-Fight back against youth-obsessed culture that conspires against women in particular
-Create more financial freedom and security for a longer, better life

Women want and deserve these answers. Maddy Dychtwald—the co-founder of Age Wave, long considered the leading think tank on aging, longevity, and retirement issues—wrote Ageless Aging to ensure that women have the most modern and scientifically accurate information so we can all live better longer.

344 pages, Hardcover

Published May 14, 2024

170 people are currently reading
2766 people want to read

About the author

Maddy Dychtwald

11 books16 followers
Maddy Dychtwald is an award-winning author, public speaker, and thought leader on longevity, aging, and the new retirement.

As co-founder of the globally renowned think tank Age Wave, she’s been researching and curating information on these subjects for close to 40 years and has led numerous acclaimed studies on women and money.

Maddy has been featured in Bloomberg Businessweek, Forbes, Newsweek, Time, Fox Business News, CNBC, and NPR, and others and has written for the Wall Street Journal, and Huffington Post.

She is the author of Influence and Cycles and lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband. Visit: MaddyDychtwald.com

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
83 (31%)
4 stars
97 (37%)
3 stars
67 (25%)
2 stars
8 (3%)
1 star
5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Mary-Lisa Russo.
Author 10 books99 followers
March 14, 2024
Continuing my educational journey on attaining and maintaining good health in 2024 and beyond, "Ageless Aging: A Woman's Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan" offered a plethora of healthcare advice for women that was a true winner for me.

I am deeply appreciative that the advice offered within these pages is focussed solely on women. Men and women age differently and have differing health issues that arise when aging, so it was nice to be privy to advice that was not generalized. As we age, we go through many changes which are out of our control, and it is reassuring to be able to refer to a book that is specific to our needs. Being aware and taking action as early as possible can help us tackle our aging process as deftly as possible.

In summary: this is a well-rounded read worth a place in any woman's library.

Thank you to Maddy Dychtwald and Kate Hanley for an ARC of this well written book which is anticipated to be published on May 14, 2024.
Profile Image for Dora Okeyo.
Author 25 books202 followers
December 23, 2023
I wanted to read this because I am in my mid thirties and the conversation around menopause, changes in hormone levels affecting mood and metabolism has been a topic among most of my friends and I loved the approach the author took with this book. It starts out from a personal experience and grows into research, on what's available currently for women in the context of her research, inquiries and also shared information and I could relate to most of what she shared. I do wish that there was a lot more on black women in this and more so with a focus on Africa, that could truly highlight some of the sociocultural factors linked to aging and nutrition. Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
Profile Image for Kenlee Funk.
20 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2024
It is an interesting, informative read if you plan to grow old. There are quite a few hacks to kick-start your health journey. The cutting-edge technology available for staying ageless is crazy and expensive; but it's still cool to be aware of them. This book clarifies the controversy surrounding hormone therapy for postmenopausal women. Definitely worth the time. Thank you to the authors.
Profile Image for Cindy.
1,712 reviews36 followers
June 17, 2024
This is a handy guide summarizing the latest research and theories for improving women's health and, most importantly, ensuring that our increasing lifespan is lived in good health and sound mind. The author is not a physician but has written about medicine, science, and health for much of her life. It is well-researched and well-presented.

The advice ranges from practical suggestions that you can add to your daily routine now to diagnostic tests that are unlikely to be covered by your insurance. It is encouraging that more research is being done to understand the differences in how women respond to medications and stress, such as how the warning signs of a heart attack in women are not the same as for men.

While books like these tend to become dated quickly as new research emerges, it is a great foundational starting point if you are approaching or of a certain age and want to ensure you take the best steps forward for optimal health. A quiz at the beginning enables you to assess your current state of health so you can prioritize where you wish to focus.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and #NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy in exchange for this honest review.
Profile Image for Michaela.
216 reviews5 followers
February 13, 2025
If you're someone who keeps up with current health research, there are unlikely to be a lot of factual surprises here. Dychtwald's advice seems mostly in line with the current, conventional consensus on topics such as menopause, exercise, and diet. She also brought up some helpful concepts on the social aspects of aging, like the practice of moai friendship groups in Okinowa.

In general, I only read medical books from medical experts, but this book was published by the Mayo Clinic, which lent it credibility. I was therefore surprised that she included some practices that don't seem to have a lot of evidence behind them (yet), like reiki and cutting edge biohacking techniques. She didn't outright recommend these practices, and warned of any health risks.

The strength of this book lies in its readability and clarity. I found her initial checklist helpful, and based on that chose to make a small modification to my diet (not eating for 12 hours overnight). This book is also a helpful summary for anyone who hasn't kept up with current research on diet, exercise, and hormone replacement therapy.
Profile Image for Cara Achterberg.
Author 9 books185 followers
January 21, 2024
If you are a woman, you need to read this book. Your life could (literally) depend on it. Ageless Aging is packed with information, ideas, practices, and recommendations to help you live a longer life well. Written in an engaging and often entertaining style, with research to back it up, this book will not just inspire you but give you the tools and information to make real changes so that your later years are some of your healthiest and happiest. I can't recommend this book enough. I'm grateful to Net Galley and the book publisher for the opportunity to read this book early. It was life-affirming and life-changing.
Profile Image for Diane.
105 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2024
A lot of good up to date information, in fact, a little bit overwhelming. As a 74 year old woman, this book was reassuring that I'm on the right track, but would probably be most useful to the 40-50 age group. Only complaint is that in the electronic version charts/lists are not very user friendly. A link to PDFs would be nice.
Profile Image for Seawitch.
698 reviews43 followers
July 2, 2024
A well-written book loaded with advice on all aspects of aging.
Profile Image for James Canton.
1 review
April 19, 2024
As a global futurist and author, I am deeply concerned about our civilization’s longevity, aging, and the future of health. Ageless Aging is a breakthrough book that blends the science of women’s aging and health challenges with an authoritative and highly insightful action plan. The author shares what women need to know to create a healthier personal future. Maddy Dychtwald blends her fascinating, easy-to-understand book with outstanding advice from noted experts.

One of the most significant contributions of Ageless Aging is the author's introduction of a new language about women’s longevity, health, and aging. Reframing a vital subject, Maddy Dychtwald introduces a holistic model of how Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan should guide women's decisions about their future. This is a novel and innovative mindset that sparks insight.

Also, the notion that women have a unique biology, different from men, that affects their health, long overlooked by medicine, is a compelling civilization-level wake-up call. Ageless Aging then defines the unique longevity challenges and solutions that affect women. This is an epic mindset the author gifts the reader to explore in their life.

If you want to shape your future and enhance your longevity, Ageless Aging will empower you. This book is a must-read for everyone who wants to rethink their longevity and health. Most importantly, Dychtwald reminds us all to take personal responsibility for designing our own longevity. Ageless Aging is an essential map for succeeding on that essential life journey of living a longer, healthier, happier, and more purposeful life.
1 review
June 6, 2024
I got this book for my wife, in addition, I got the audible for myself; and I'm glad that I did. Author, Maddy Dychtwald, shares her extensive research, profound knowledge, and keen insights within the context of her own personal experience. This makes a huge difference for the reader. Furthermore, she brilliantly connects the dots of aging and longevity as a contemporary women's issue. While 20th Century, medical science takes a victory lap over the monumental achievement of extending the human lifespan by 30 years, Dychtwald reminds us that our health-span lags sorely behind--basically leaving many of us, particularly the female of the species, longer to be alone, sick and poor. Fortunately, she does not leave the reader in this state of doom; rather she provides us with concrete strategies to brighten this picture.
I particularly appreciate the way she takes "The Science of Aging" down to its source--the cellular level where it belongs, as opposed to the all too familiar story on late-night infomercials of dark circles, wrinkles and sagging skin. Even beyond the physical effects of aging, Dychtwald takes her readers into the complex realm of the psychological aspects of aging.
Perhaps one of the most beneficial perspectives Dychtwald provides her readers, is resolving the outdated notion that healthy aging is beyond our influence and is caused by preordained inherited genes.
Ageless Aging is not a quick fix promise, rather it is a wealth of knowledge that serves as a guide toward the only true fountain of youth--the science of aging and the technology of health. Here Dychtwald skillfully provides the reader with both.
1 review
March 10, 2024
As a Gerontologist and leadership coach, I've spent decades equipping women of all ages to thrive at home and work. Maddy Dychtwald's book, Ageless Aging, is the perfect synthesis of the concrete, relevant and current information women need to know about living a long, healthy and purposeful life, combined with ways to put that into practice to live with energy, resilience and joy--a breath of fresh air in a world that often neglects the complexities and subtleties of aging women. Maddy draws on her own story of radically redefining aging, ground-breaking research and an extensive list of the world's foremost experts exploring:

✓ the nuances of ageism,
✓ the impact of how we think and feel about aging,
✓ finding purpose,
✓ the power of relationships (especially the one you have with yourself),
✓ how to prepare financially by focusing on an abundant wealth span, and more.

The result is a comprehensive, pragmatic book for women who want to become their best selves for the longest time possible and, for what matters most, thriving as the modern matriarchs the world needs now more than ever.
Profile Image for Kylee.
14 reviews
December 31, 2023
This was a motivating, inspiration read. I appreciated the comprehensive, one-stop book that covers everything regarding a woman’s experience with aging. I appreciate that the author made sure to target everything to women specifically since so much of modern medicine is based on men - a man’s experience, most effective dosage based on studying men, etc.

The author covers a wide variety of topics from exercise to nutrition to mindfulness and the power of maintaining positivity. While she is just one woman, she also shares her own powerful story and is someone who walks the walk as opposed to just talking the talk.

This book is a great, judgement-free way to gain perspective on some the actionable things you can do to support your own aging process, as well as talking points for future research to expand on the topics.
1 review1 follower
March 1, 2024
I was extremely fortunate to have received a galley copy of "Ageless Aging." What an inspiration! As a a nearly 70-year-old woman and a strong advocate for healthy aging, "Ageless Aging" was a breath of fresh air. Finally, a book that redefined the possibilities of successful aging for women of all ages. The first of its kind, this is a comprehensive guide across fitness, sleep, hormones, brain health, food as medicine, purpose, financial well-being, and so much more. "Ageless Aging" does not intimidate women but rather empowers them with advice from experts, cutting-edge research, engaging storytelling. and practical tips, tools, and techniques to get started. A must-read for every woman ready to embrace ageless aging and thrive in their newfound longevity.
Profile Image for Books Tea Magic.
147 reviews7 followers
January 6, 2024
Ageless Aging contains a wealth of information, including inspiring stories and high profile examples of women of age living their best lives. Building your wisdom, the positivity effect, and the importance of having friends and coworkers of all ages really ring true for me! I’m looking forward to charting my own path and plan to put the ageless aging recipe to work while pulling in my partner to talk about all this too. . I’ve been wondering lately what this next stage of our life looks like … what do I want it to look like, what do we want it to look like? This book has steps to help us start a conversation and formulate the answers.
1 review1 follower
February 28, 2024
Like some others who have written reviews, I received an advance copy of this wonderful book. The fact that Maddy Dychtwald is an expert in her field is quite evident. Her passion for this subject and the breadth of her knowledge is amazing. The insights Maddy shares about her personal experiences meeting the challenges of aging makes Ageless Aging an engaging read and, coupled with the research behind her assertions, this book stands out as a roadmap for an experience we all must face. Some of us will travel this road kicking and screaming and some of us will take it with a little more grace, but whatever our paths may be, Ageless Aging will help us make the most of the journey.
1 review
May 17, 2024
This is one of the BEST books I've read on women's aging in a long time. I read this book cover to cover because it is written in such a down-to-earth way. It really reads to me like the summary of the author's life's work. It seems she's been researching this field of longevity for a long time. Anyhow, I also really liked that each chapter outlines tangible action steps any woman can take, regardless of income. So many of the tips cost no money at all. It also has a "what's coming in the future" for nerds like myself :) I cannot recommend this book more highly for any woman who wants to take charge of her aging process. - CJD
Profile Image for Teri Stich.
904 reviews
February 10, 2025
I found it hard to rate this one. I gave it four stars because it is well written, presenting information that at least appears to be well researched, and it did give many ways in which we can take control of our health and aging process. My faults with it was all the high tech costly gadgets and testing that the many just can't afford. Yes, maybe they are useful and can give you even better indications of where your health is but they are just not in the reach of most people. Good for you if you can afford it.
Read it, gleam what you can because yes, there is a lot of good information, We all need to do what we can to keep our Healthspan going.
1 review
February 1, 2024
I received an advance galley of this book and, once I opened it, I couldn't put it down. As a 51-year-old woman, I spend quite a bit of time researching the best nutrition, skincare, sleep hacks, etc. Even with all of that prior research, I found this book incredibly eye-opening. You can tell that the author has really done her homework and she does a great job of cutting through the clutter, distilling all of the competing advice out there into some actionable best practices. I've already ordered advance copies for some of my closest friends!
Profile Image for Jill Burkart.
1 review
April 15, 2024
I was eager to read the soon to be released book by Maddy Dychtwald so I was happy to receive an advanced copy which proved to be insightful, well written and helpful as I continue my quest for optimum health! This comprehensive guide to aging well as referenced by a multitude of experts is appropriate for a novice as well as experienced women to read. What sets this book apart from the many in this field is there are specific suggestions to address how best to navigate the many years ahead for woman and a format to create your own ageless action plan to flourish in health, wealth and joy.
1 review
January 20, 2024
As editor of the CSA Journal, published by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors, I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of Ageless Aging: A Woman's Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan and Lifespan. I couldn't put it down! Every woman in her 40s and beyond whould run and get a copy of this book. It is a must-read from front to back with so many lessons I wish I would have learned at an earlier age.
Profile Image for Meghan.
5 reviews
February 15, 2024
Longevity is all the rage lately, and this book is a great starter course. Women and men are NOT the same, and should not be treated as such. We need to walk our own path. This book provides plenty of information and guidance for that journey. There’s more to health than simply “eat right and exercise.” If you want to learn more about how to get healthy and stay that way as you age, definitely check out Ageless Aging.
Profile Image for Amy.
1 review
June 5, 2024
I highly recommend this new book from Maddy Dychtwald! It is both informative and relatable. The author has such an engaging way of writing and combines personal anecdotes and practical advice.

Dychtwald provides actionable strategies for maintaining physical health, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to approach aging with a positive mindset and a proactive attitude!
25 reviews1 follower
March 14, 2025
This was an excellent read that caused our regular book club members to form a separate group to reread this together chapter by chapter on a weekly basis. At each gathering we would focus on the concepts of the chapter and discuss how it impacted our lives and what changes we made based on what we were learning. Since finishing that book the group selected another book we could learn healthy concepts from and we continue to meet weekly to share challenges and successes as ageless age.
Profile Image for Delaney Archer.
114 reviews2 followers
April 12, 2025
Loved that this focused specifically on women, given so little research has been performed despite the fact that we statistically outlive men! Some kinda questionable things included in here although they always had a disclaimer about clinical findings/lack thereof. I loved the opening and continual focus around mindset. Probably intended more for those in 40s/50s but I found it very affirming in my 30s!
Profile Image for Laura.
166 reviews
May 23, 2024
This book is a fantastic read for anyone starting to focus on their hormones and aging. It's insightful and practical, offering useful tips and easy-to-understand advice for staying healthy as you get older. I listened to this which was great, but will now be buying it so I can take notes and keep for a reference as needed.

Thanks to NetGalley for the early review audio copy!
25 reviews
October 15, 2024
This is a timely resource for those of entering or in middle age. The book is well organized into relevant sections to formulate a plan to sail through the Golden Years in your best physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health. It is a great review of much of what we already know, but is presented in an easy to grasp and implement format.
99 reviews
October 25, 2024
This book "talks" more than "demonstrates". I find very little scientific reference or research to back up the messages. It almost feels like you are listening from a neighbor who shares the findings on women longevity. That said, I still appreciate the resourceful list of treatments, tests, drugs and hormone cycles discussion (ch 7-9) on the biological effect in women.
Profile Image for Linda Hartlaub.
614 reviews10 followers
January 3, 2025
This is a no nonsense book aimed at women over 50 who are looking to increase their enjoyment of life. It spans medical and mental health, diet, exercise, sleep, love and self-assurance. No gimmicks. No hyperbole. Published by the Mayo Press so the science is sound. If you are looking for a book to assist you in setting your health goals, this is it.
Profile Image for Donna.
407 reviews
January 24, 2025
This is an amazing book!!!!! Every woman should read it regardless of their age and stage in life. The author has written the book in plain language, with simple to follow instructions and suggestions on how to make the best of your life today going forward. We women owe it to ourselves to be the best that we can always be.
Profile Image for Jennifer Hazen.
132 reviews5 followers
December 26, 2023
The electronic version of this book is very difficult to read. As far as the information goes, it’s not anything new. For a better book on the same subject, I’d suggest Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.