The Astonishing Lives of Older Women

“An illuminating survey of the challenges older women face in North America … It’s an unsettling but, unfortunately, practical guide to aging.” — Publishers Weekly
“This book offers informal financial advice specific to Canadian audiences, but is best suited for general readers interested in a broad-ranging exposé of the lives of older women.” — Booklist
“A cautionary tale that all women approaching their 50s should read and take to heart as they plan and prepare for their post-retirement years.” — Library Journal
“Revelatory and engaging, The Astonishing Lives of Older Women is an inspiring feminist resource.” — Foreword Reviews
“Despite the warnings, Welsh argues persuasively that women (and men) can still strive for longevity with vitality. They just need to start working towards it sooner than later, before time’s up.” — Toronto Star
“This is critical reading for any woman hoping never to face homelessness — or its ugly cousin, invisibility — which pretty much means us all.” — Zoomer
“While Welsh primarily writes about women over 60, The Astonishing Lives of Older Women holds a cautionary message for younger women who might not be aware of how the decisions they are making now regarding their careers and relationships will influence their future ability to enjoy their retirement and old age. The book holds useful information for women of all ages.” — Winnipeg Free Press
“Moira Welsh hasn’t just written a book; she has drafted a strategic plan for the soul. It is an essential read for anyone committed to a future where aging is not a problem to be solved, but a journey to be celebrated with dignity, community, and pleasure.” — Respect News
“This book exposes the realities society rarely talks about, not with despair, but with dignity. Moira Welsh empowers younger generations to prepare differently and advocate more fiercely for themselves. A moving, essential read for every woman who wants to enter her later decades with strength, clarity, and agency.” —Sevy Petras, CEO and co-founder of Priority Life Care
“The Astonishing Lives of Older Women is a necessary, eye-opening look at what it really means to age as a woman today. Welsh highlights older women redefining intimacy, friendship, sexuality, and purpose. She lifts up experts and advocates fighting to close the gender pension gap, build better housing solutions, and challenge the ageism baked into our systems. What makes this book powerful is its humanity. It reminds us that improving aging in North America starts with centring women — their realities, their resilience, and their leadership. It’s essential reading for anyone shaping the future of aging — and for anyone who believes, as I do, that when women thrive, we all thrive.” — Charles de Vilmorin, SVP of Resident Engagement, LifeLoop

Moira Welsh is a political reporter at the Toronto Star’s Queen’s Park bureau. Previously, she worked as an investigative reporter, and for decades, has written about the joys and vicissitudes of a long life. Welsh lives in Toronto and is the mother of two wonderful young men.

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