SEATTLE — Debra Whitman, AARP’s chief public policy officer, was approaching age 50 and had key questions on aging herself.
“There was so much I didn’t know, and there wasn’t a book out there,” Whitman said. “I had ‘What to Expect When You’re Expecting,’ but not what to expect when you’re aging.”
Whitman’s book, 'The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond,’ raises crucial questions about living well in the second half of life. They include:
- How long will I live?
- Will I be healthy?
- Will I lose my memory?
- How long will I work?
- Will I have enough money?
- Where should I live?
- How will I die?
Using insights from stories from her family and people across the country, information from experts and research, Whitman discusses longevity, brain health, financial planning, work, housing and the value of relationships and social engagement. She also gives practical steps for creating a better second 50.
“It’s both at the individual level of things you can do yourself and then how can we make society better,” Whitman said.
By 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or older, and demographics are changing. Whitman says knowledge is power so you can plan for the years ahead.
This includes support for family caregivers who are caring for older adults needing extra help.
“We’re thinking about how we can better support family caregivers, so you don’t have to quit your job so that you can take care of your loved one and get them the care that they need,” Whitman said.
The WA Cares Fund provides working Washingtonians a way to earn access to long-term care benefits that can help down the line by providing support like funds for family caregivers, home modifications and meal delivery.
To learn more about Whitman’s book and to find additional resources for family caregivers, visit the AARP website.
Sponsored by AARP
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.