Review of True Joy for the Retired

[Guda Lydia]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "True Joy for the Retired" by Paulina Kay.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Paulina’s passion for the elderly peaked during one of her visits to her ex-husband’s beloved grandmother. Grandma Ruth had moved to her new home in a retirement community in Redmond, Washington. Paulina Kay habitually took her son for visits, he used to run around the premises, and she tried hard to keep him in check. Everything changed when one of the residents commended her for the frequent visits and implored her to let her son run around. He brought joy to the quiet community, and they all loved his presence. Her son helped reduce the feelings of abandonment and loneliness they felt.

The book seeks to tell the stories of the aged and highlight what they go through. It begins by showcasing how various cultures perceive and treat the elderly, like in Vietnam, where the elderly are regarded as guardians of wisdom, knowledge, and traditions. Therefore, getting old makes you valuable and not a burden. The author gives a voice to the generation, allowing us to realize the challenges they face living in a fast, digital, and ever-changing world. The book demystifies our belief system that equates old age to incapacity and calls for better treatment of our elderly.

Paulina adopts a positive tone, giving the book an uplifting and bright outlook. Each chapter has large and high-resolution photographs of elderly individuals the author has interacted with and representations of the old. The vivid descriptions allow one to visualize and experience the good and bad moments and have a personal connection with the individuals in the book.

My favorite aspect is the insightful quotes and cited works that build up the points and discussions in the read. For instance, the words of Laura L. Carstensen, a Stanford psychology professor and Director of The Stanford Center for Longevity, ‘There is growing reason to think that older people may be just the resource children need.’ This increases the credibility and accuracy of the book. My only wish is that it was longer and more comprehensive.

I found only two grammatical errors, evidence of the book’s excellent editing. It lacks sensitive or adult scenes, making it suitable for all interested readers. True Joy for the Retired is a necessary read that seeks to disrupt the status quo. It systematically calls for the younger generation to practice understanding and love. Our elders grew up in an era where mental health and open display of love was not a priority. Everyone always wants to feel valued, including our senior members. I gladly give True Joy for the Retired a 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to everyone since we all grow old, and it is never too early to initiate change and ensure equal treatment for all.

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True Joy for the Retired
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[Alexander C Schmoock]

Retirees and the elderly in general will find this book truly helpful. Great review.

[Nqobile Mashinini Tshabalala]

Elderly people are so valuable and still have so much to contribute. Awesome review!