Title: The Ups and Downs of Growing Older: Beyond Seventy Years of Living
Author: Viola B. Mecke, Ph.D., ABPP
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 978-1-6698-0701-8
Pages: 171
Genre: Non-fiction / Self-Help / Aging
Reviewed by: Carol Davala

Read Book Review

Latest research indicates that life spans may decrease in the next decades due to the
prevalence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart conditions, and lifestyles that
include excessive eating and tobacco use. In the meantime, 93-year-old Viola Mecke, a
former psychologist and professor has written a book about aging, intended for the
nearly quarter of the population that will soon be over 75 years of age. The Ups and
Downs of Growing Older: Beyond Seventy Years of Living chronicles the prospects of
this “older-old” group and recognizes the many changes, new perspectives, and
variable dynamics that must be considered and assimilated into this later time of life.

Mecke creatively opens each chapter with a bit of reflective prose that compares aging
to the waves of life. Here it is often likened to times of peace and calm, but ultimately
preparing for rough seas ahead. Consider the lament, “Times of perfect stillness are
present when not a ripple ruffles the water. It is almost eerie, for the quietness portends
an oncoming storm.”

While examining the conflicts which often arise when growing into this elder phase of life,
Mecke considers the difficulties that can come about due to health issues, fading
energy, memory problems, and changing relationships, and the need that exists to
address these issues. Ultimately acceptance and being able to adjust to common
elderly issues may help lessen the worry, confusion, anxiety, and depressive reactions
that occur for the older person and those around them. In our youth-oriented society,
Mecke speaks of residents in her own independent living community who maintain a
quick wit, sharp mind, and a positive attitude toward life. Others she notes, who were
formerly active, now get winded on short walks, or are prone to falling. Clearly life as we
age is filled with unpredictable events that can challenge any plan.

As a nonagenarian, Mecke speaks from an empathetic perspective to offer guidelines
for an easier aging transition. Advice is included pertaining to practical concerns like
deciding where to live, adapting to loss of independence, understanding physical
difficulties, and introducing coping techniques.

Within this compact 12-chapter book, a bevy of references are included for foot-noted
material. The book’s closing words featuring Mecke’s “A Poem of Life” with the phrase
“Age and time took much away, memory fills the hour” seems an effort to share the
elder years as a time of reflecting on the richness, grace and gratitude of life.

While many self-help books about aging merely focus on the brighter and more positive
side of getting older, Mecke’s concerns tend to lean toward the inevitable shadows of
the process. By examining the nuances of these later years in life and showcasing what
the elder population and their younger family members may be up against, Mecke
brings a genuine sincerity to a discussion that clearly recognizes the pitfalls of decline.
While this book might not be the most uplifting exploration of the twilight years, it
delivers an informative and thought-provoking read.