The New Age of Ageing

As we age, society’s negative assumptions mean we become a burden, a problem and the excluded ‘other’. With a convincing call to embrace all that is positive about ageing comes this timely book from the authors of Retiring with Attitude.

Debunking the myth of the ageing time bomb it presents a new, yet realistic, way for society to engage with older people from a myriad of perspectives, including consumerism, media, work, housing, community and 'beauty'.

Brought alive by the voices of people aged 50 to 90, it proves ageing is not passive decline but a process of learning, joy, political engagement, challenges and achievement.

Increased longevity has consequences for us all. By challenging our assumptions and stereotypes, this book demonstrates that we are capable of living better together longer in this new, older world.

"The book’s panoramic sweep across policy and its spirited style make for an easy but rewarding read. Anyone new to the subject of our ageing society, and especially those with responsibilities for policy or services for older people, would do well to study this book closely." Journal of Population Ageing

“We need more books like The New Age of Ageing in the UK and Europe. [This book] is thoughtful translational work, which aims to fill a gap between expert knowledge and populist rhetoric. For this reason, it is to be viewed as both timely and significant.” Critical Social Policy

"The New Age of Ageing is an important book, and our society would benefit from policy-makers taking note of the authors' numerous recommendations." Citizen's Income Trust

"At last a book that consistently makes the positive case for later life and, in the process, demolishes the myths that dominate public discussion of ageing. A breath of fresh air, highly recommended." Professor Alan Walker, University of Sheffield

"Grounded in academic literature, and in the powerful words of their research participants, the authors inspire readers to envision new possibilities for growth and development in later life." Jacquelyn B. James, Lynch School of Education, Boston College, USA

"Challenges many of society's rigid stereotypes of older people. It navigates the reader through the main debates on ageing in an accessible and informative way." Dr Tatiana Rowson, Heriot Watt University

"How do we learn to live in a society that's growing older but doesn't conform to the old "Pipe and Slippers" stereotypes? This inspiring book, with its compelling snapshot stories of older people's lives, provides powerful insights into this modern age of ageing. All those involved in policy-making should read this book." Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP

"Excellent and eminently readable account of the personal, political and professional changes in our ageing lives. Nuggets from policy and practice arenas are interlaced with quotes from interviews with an array of differently ageing women and men." Miriam David, UCL Institute of Education

"The authors give the lie to many negative myths about ageing. Using anecdotes and research evidence they shed a welcome light on the contribution made by older people to modern society." Judy Wurr, Mental Capacity Assessor

Living longer together;

Going on and on;

How society makes people old;

Time-bomb, what time bomb? The economics of ageing;

Overlooked and Under-estimated: Older Consumers;

Working longer together;

Media exclusion;

Cover up;

Living Together;

Who Cares?;

Wiser together;

The best bits;

The dark side;

We’re still here.