ABSTRACT
The purpose of this book is to expand our thinking on what it means for women post-midlife to age. This chapter looks at where we currently stand as a society in relation to the aging process. It is only through understanding the process of aging in the past and the present that we can entertain ideas about redefining the future and answering the question of how individuals can create and maintain meaning in their lives post mid-life. This chapter is an overview of lifespan demographics and current social perspectives, including the economy, the healthcare system, the need for appropriate housing, and the detrimental cultural attitudes that give rise to ageism. What emerges clearly, within this maze of social issues, is that society is being called on to give more conscious attention to this segment of society and develop a new outlook regarding the post-midlife years. With people living longer lives, it is incumbent on our society to find ways to empower older adults so that they continue to be contributors to society as long as possible.
