Living longer affects everything—careers, health, families and relationships, society and the economy—so why not read up on it?
Retirement Tip of the Week: It’s inevitable everyone ages, but these authors dig deep into what it all means. This summer, consider reading a book or two on what aging is, what it means, how it’s changing and what to do about it.
Aging is more than adding another candle to the birthday cake. These six books explore how to live happier and healthier in old age, how technology is impacting the way people get older and what to do with this time.
“Life is in the Transitions” by Bruce Feiler
Change is a part of life, and this author walks readers through how to adjust gracefully. This book could be a winner for individuals near retirement or newly retired, as he shares how to navigate big, life-altering moments.
See: Want a better retirement? Add these books to your reading list.
“Becoming Better Grownups: Rediscovering What Matters and Remembering How to Fly” by Brad Montague
Retirement is a time to pursue a new passion or purpose, especially for those whose identities were so wrapped up in their careers. In this book, Montague shares lessons on life he learned from children in elementary school and residents of nursing homes.
“The Third Act: Reinventing Your Next Chapter” by Josh Sapan
The author, a longtime media executive, profiles dozens of people who have tried their hands at jobs or projects completely unlike their previous experience. He includes stories about celebrities like Alan Alda and Jane Fonda, as well as everyday folks who made a huge change later in their lives, like the woman who retired from telecommunications and founded a children’s museum.
“Lifespan: Why We Age—And Why We Don’t Have To” by David A. Sinclair and Matthew D. LaPlante
Sinclair discusses the science of aging, and how to do it well, in this book, such as lifestyle changes and new technology. He argues aging is a “treatable” disease, and that people can make choices that let them slow down—possibly even reverse—aging.
“The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness” by Robert J. Waldinger and Marc Schulz
Based on decades of research, the authors offer readers perspectives on happiness, such as by sharing what older people regret about their younger years. The book highlights the Harvard Study of Adult Development, a happiness study that began more than 80 years ago.
“Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age” by Jo Ann Jenkins
From the chief executive officer of AARP comes a book about the core areas of life—health, wealth and self. Jenkins talks about why phrases like “50 is the new 30” don’t matter and what does, such as “mindful living,” caregiving and financial planning.
