The Astonishing Lives of Older Women: How to Create Pleasure Over Peril in Peak Longevity

“An illuminating survey of the challenges older women face in North America … It's an unsettling but, unfortunately, practical guide to aging.” — Publishers Weekly

“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

“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

“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

“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

“This book is an essential read for any woman. Moira weaves cutting-edge research with the stories of charming women we come to know and love.” — Laura Tamblyn Watts, author of the international bestseller Let’s Talk About Aging Parents

“The Astonishing Lives of Older Women shines much-needed light on a group that is invisible in public policy. It’s a sobering reminder that far too many women are aging into ‘golden years’ that will be marked by poverty and deprivation and will continue to do so until we reform not only outdated employment and pension policies but societal attitudes.” — André Picard, author of Neglected No More: The Urgent Need to Improve the Lives of Canada’s Elders

“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

“Revelatory and engaging, The Astonishing Lives of Older Women is an inspiring feminist resource.” — Foreword Reviews

“This is critical reading for any woman hoping never to face homelessness — or its ugly cousin, invisibility — which pretty much means us all.” — Zoomer

“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

“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

“Through a beautiful blend of stories of lived experience and thoughtful context, Moira Welsh offers a balanced portrait of both the remarkable strength of older women and the myriad challenges we face as we enter life’s final stage. I left inspired by their resilience and resolve — and motivated to prepare for my own future older self.” — Kirsten Jacobs, vice president of Shared Learning Initiatives