Creative Age: Awakening Human Potential in the Second Half of Life Book

For thousands of years men and women have risked their lives and spent their fortunes in a futile quest for eternal youth. In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned psychiatrist and researcher Gene D. Cohen takes us to the wellspring of genuine human vitality, the unique creative power generated by age and experience, and shows us how to tap this inner source to enrich, even transform our lives through middle age and beyond. A pioneering physician and respected international authority on aging and creativity, Dr. Cohen weaves history, scientific research, inspiring true-life stories, and his own fresh insights to journey into the previously uncharted territory of human potential in the "second half" of life---THE CREATIVE AGE.

The over-thirty crowd was once subject to ridicule by younger people, and anyone past age fifty was definitely "over the hill." But in a single generation, the view of life after fifty has changed dramatically. Today society is shaped by unprecedented growth in the number of people over fifty, shifting patterns of opportunity and responsibility at work and at home, and advances in healthcare that offer the promise of longer and more active lives. In this fascinating, life-affirming book, Dr. Cohen debunks harmful myths about aging and illuminates the biological and emotional foundations of creative thought and expression. He offers compelling evidence that the unique combination of age, experience, and creativity can produce exciting inner growth and infinite potential for anyone.

"What, retired persons can be creative? Gene Cohen has done it again. He has broken down another of our stereotyped images of being old. Our hand-me-down ideas of what it islike to be old don't stand up to his facts and analysis in his book. Older persons have been creative and can be encouraged to be creative. The encouraged and released creativity can be productive not only for the older person but also for their families and society. Let's listen to these released creative voices of experience. Thank you Dr. Cohen for freeing us from out-of-date models of what it is like to be old." (— James E. Birren, Associate Director of the UCLA Center on Aging)

"A fascinating and enjoyable book that goes a long way toward destroying the pervasive myths about aging...I highly recommend this book to everyone. It is must reading for anyone who want to plan wisely for the 'rest of life.'"( -- Horace B. Deets, Executive Director, AARP)

"This is essential reading for those with elderly parents as well as for those entering their twilight years. Highly recommended."(—Library Journal)