This blog post is to satisfy an assignment for LS 581
Universal Design for Information Technologies which is a course that focuses on
aging, ageism, and disability in correlation to technology.
Book Review: How to Age by Anne Karpf published in 2014.
This small handheld book covers the topic of aging in approximately
200 pages. But do not be fooled, it is a witty and charming read. Krapf, a
sociologist and award winning journalist, discusses the history and the many cultural
views of aging. She talk about various trends and stereotypes like newest trend
, the “youthful old”, the impossible ideals that may stress someone beyond
their 40s thinking they will become old and decrepit. The chapters are broken
up with examples of aging famous people and interesting facts, like where the
word “fogey” came from.
She takes on the fear of aging head on with sound confidence
that truly there is nothing to fear, just to embrace life for all it’s worth. She
gives a different insight to aging, why not simply age gracefully? She urges
readers to think about how they want to be when they hit a particular age, to
be proud of your age and realize that aging is not the end of the world. It’s
life.
“Age zestfully!”
Her very personable approach to the topic makes you feel
like you are engaged in a conversation rather than reading a lecture.
Beware, if you are looking for a fact book, this is not it.
I gave it a 4 out of 5. Worth the read. Support your local
library and check out a copy!
