What Are Old People For?: How Elders Will Save the World

William H. Thomas, M.D.
VanderWyk & Burnham (2007)
ISBN 9781889242323
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (7/07)


While we search for the fountain of youth in a jar, needle or scalpel, we overlook the secret powers of growing older.  “Youth accustoms us to running ever faster and jumping ever higher, and the prospect of change in the opposite direction fills us with a cold dread.”  We are unprepared for the things age presents.  We do not want to adapt to changes in our body.  As we age, our muscles weaken and we must learn to adjust, not just once, but many times.  Senior adults do not report as much depression as youth, possibly because they do learn to adapt to changes in their body and circumstances.

Geriatrician William H. Thomas, M.D., discusses many aspects of aging, including eldercare.  Thomas champions the elderly, insisting on respect.  The thought of living/dying in a nursing home is frightening for most people and yet it looks inevitable to them.  Thomas offers viable alternatives such as a Green House.  A Green House cultivates a warm, inviting place for seniors to live.  Elders are encouraged to be self-sufficient. 

“What Are Old People For?,” by William H. Thomas, M.D., is a timely book.  This is an aging society.  The information presented is simple, easy-to-read, and needed.  Thomas demonstrates his great understanding and respect for elderhood.  He offers hope and optimism.  This book confronts the myths of aging.  Thomas encourages humans to embrace all stages of life, not just youth.  He encourages readers to become more conscious of the contributions that elders make.  This book should be read by everybody! 

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