Summary

In Western society people are now living to great ages. Old age offers one of the biggest challenges in the journey of life. Many people will not face it and try to avoid it by plastic surgery, liposuction or other absurd attempts at rejuvenation. Too many people are simply afraid of dying. The serenity and wisdom of old age is much to be admired and from it much can be learned also by the not so old.

This new book is packed with positive insights. Like all her best books, this one arises out of Dr Kroll's direct experience as a medical practitioner and spiritual director. The book is about the spirituality of old age, but it is not written to force religion on anyone. As a doctor, Kroll writes also about the physical problems of ageing - creaking joints, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. She also writes brilliantly about depressive illnesses and the desire to obfuscate the problems of declining physical strength with pills, booze and other quick fixes.

The less attractive aspects of old age are discussed squarely- failing memory, natural confusion, and the natural effects of incontinence. Kroll also touches on some real issues relating to euthanasia and medical termination without the victim's consent. The honesty and downright common sense of this book make it a rare and extremely useful piece of work.