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comments that being engaged with grandparenting and having responsibilities and
tasks with errands, babysitting, and school obligations keep a person involved. He
encourages involvement as much as possible within the family. Kottler comments
that it is “important that older people feel a sense of purpose in later life, most often
as a mentor to younger generations” (p. 10).
The author primarily reviews the topics of longevity and aging. He explores
cultural differences; presents diverse perspectives on grandparenting; identifies
challenges, myths, and misconceptions surrounding elderly caregivers; offers Dr. Phyllis J. Broughton is
valuable insight to attitudes and capabilities of grandparenting; and advocates for a retired Dean of Academic
future of healthy aging and meaningful activities. and Student Affairs
from Martin Community
The chapters provide a wealth of information, including challenges, and explain College, Williamston,
the various transformations/stages that occur in the later stages of life. Kottler North Carolina. Currently
provides a list of life stages and explains the developmental, behavioral, and a Teaching Assistant
personality changes as related to the older stage of life. He provides this list of life Professor of Adult
stages: Education in the College
1. Infancy of Education, East Carolina
University, Greenville,
2. Early Childhood North Carolina, she is
3. Middle Childhood a member and current
4. Adolescence chapter president (2022–
5. Early Adulthood 2024) of the Beta Upsilon
6. Middle Adulthood Chapter of North Carolina
7. Later Adulthood State Organization.
broughtonp@ecu.edu;
8. Old Age (young old = 55–65 years old; middle old = 66–85 years old; and pbrought123@gmail.com
very old = 86–120 years old). (p. 10)
Kottler comments that each stage has its own importance to an individual—an
importance that is dependent on learning and intellectual development still being a
priority, along with “deep engagement in intimate and satisfying relationships” (p.
2). The sense of “health” within a stage would also include “feeling productive and
involved in some form of meaningful work” as well as “acceptance of the things that
are not within one’s control, instead focusing on choices that matter the most” (p.
2). Each stage offers a hopeful and positive perspective, turning each day into a gift.
The key insight for me related to the stage(s) of life at which one experiences the
most significant changes. Infancy is the first such stage because the brain develops
the most and leads to life skills such as walking, talking, and so on. The other time
in life when people change the most is “old age.” This is a time not only when health
issues occur but also when “personality undergoes the most dramatic changes” (p.
16). This is the stage where one struggles, not knowing what to expect, and anxiety
is prevalent.
The author provides information in a positive and uplifting manner, emphasizing
the importance of numerous factors for healthy aging. He encourages engaging in
meaningful work, fostering opportunities to be with friends and loved ones, and
sharing wisdom and experiences with others. By highlighting these aspects, the
author promotes a holistic approach to the impact of aging on personal growth,
social connections, and fulfillment that comes from contributing to the community.
I appreciated the book’s emphasis on meaningful involvement with work,
family, and friends, as well as with ongoing responsibilities and continued learning.
The author provides encouragement and insights into how these connections can
contribute to a fulfilling and purposeful life as one ages. His book serves as a
reminder of the importance of nurturing relationships and finding meaning in the

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