The Virtues of Aging Carter, Jimmy: Amazon.com.au: Kindle Store
The Virtues of Aging (Library of Contemporary Thought) eBook : Carter, Jimmy: Amazon.com.au: Kindle Store
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Jimmy CarterJimmy Carter
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The Virtues of Aging (Library of Contemporary Thought) Kindle Edition
by Jimmy Carter (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 547
Part of: Library of Contemporary Thought (5 books)
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Former president Jimmy Carter reflects on aging, blending memoir, anecdote, political savvy, and practical advice to truly illuminate the rich promises of growing older.
“As we've grown older, the results have been surprisingly good,” writes former president Jimmy Carter in this wise, deeply personal meditation on the new experiences that come to us with age. President Carter had never enjoyed more prestige or influence on the world stage, nor had he ever felt more profound happiness with himself, with his accomplishments, and with his beloved wife, Rosalynn, than in his golden years. In The Virtues of Aging, Jimmy Carter shares the knowledge and the pleasures that age have brought him.
The approach to old age was not an easy one for President Carter. At fifty-six, having lost a presidential election, he found himself involuntarily retired from a job he loved and facing a large debt on his farm and warehouse business. President Carter writes movingly here of how he and Rosalynn overcame their despair and disappointment as together they met the challenges ahead.
President Carter delves into issues he and millions of others confront in planning for retirement, undertaking new diet and exercise regimens, coping with age prejudice, and sorting out key political questions. On a more intimate level, Carter paints a glowing portrait of his happy marriage to Rosalynn, a relationship that deepened when they became grandparents. Here too are fascinating sketches of world leaders, Nobel laureates, and great thinkers President Carter has been privileged to know—and the valuable lessons on aging he learned from them.
The Virtues of Aging celebrates both the blessings that come to us as we grow older and the blessings older people can bestow upon others. An important and moving book, written with gentleness, humor, and love, The Virtues of Aging is a treasure for readers of all ages.
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Previous page
So then, when are we old? The correct answer is that each of us is old when we think we are—when we accept an attitude of dormancy, dependence on others, a substantial limitation on our physical and mental activity, and restrictions on the number of other people with whom we interact. As I know from experience, this is not tied very closely to how many years we’ve lived.
Highlighted by 189 Kindle readers
Our primary purpose in our golden years is not just to stay alive as long as we can, but to savor every opportunity for pleasure, excitement, adventure, and fulfillment.
Highlighted by 168 Kindle readers
Two thirds of our physical ailments and premature deaths are caused by our own deliberate choice of lifestyle and can be delayed or prevented with proper habits.
Highlighted by 119 Kindle readers
Next page
Product description
From the Back Cover
"We are not alone in our worry about both the physical aspect of aging and the prejudice that exists toward the elderly, which is similar to racism or sexism. What makes it different is that the prejudice also exists among those of us who are either within this group or rapidly approaching it. When I have mentioned the title of this book to a few people, most of them responded, 'Virtues? What could possibly be good about growing old?' The most obvious answer, of course, is to consider the alternative to aging. But there are plenty of other good answers--many based on our personal experiences and observations. "
--from THE VIRTUES OF AGING
About the Author
Jimmy Carter (James Earl Carter, Jr.), thirty-ninth president of the United States, is the author of thirteen previous books. In 1982 he became University Distinguished Professor at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and founded The Carter Center, which addresses national and international issues of public policy and attempts to promote democracy, protect human rights, and prevent disease and other afflictions. In 1991, President Carter launched The Atlanta Project (TAP), a communitywide effort to attack the social problems associated with poverty. He also teaches Sunday school and is a deacon in the Maranatha Baptist Church of Plains. For recreation, he enjoys fly-fishing, woodworking, jogging, cycling, tennis, and skiing.
Product details
ASIN : B005FGUNGU
Publisher : Ballantine Books; Reissue edition (24 August 2011)
Language : English
File size : 385 KB
Text-to-Speech : Enabled
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
X-Ray : Not Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Print length : 110 pagesBest Sellers Rank: 40,617 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)1 in Sociology of Ageing
3 in Gerontology (Kindle Store)
7 in Gerontology (Books)Customer Reviews:
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 547
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Vera Randall ... Australia
5.0 out of 5 stars A SINCERE ENCOURAGEMENT TO REDEEM THE TIME AHEADReviewed in Australia on 13 February 2021
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Based on his research, recollections and clear encouragement to embrace aging and redeem the time ahead President Csrter's work brought joy to my heart and a resolution to put his advice on purpose and planning into action.
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Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Suggestions for Living to a Ripe Old AgeReviewed in the United States on 23 October 2022
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Jimmy Carter asks the reader, - when are we old? He follows up, by Rules saying that the correct answer is that each of us is old when we think we are—when we accept an attitude of dormancy, dependence on others, a substantial limitation on our physical and mental activity, and restrictions on the number of other people with whom we interact; not to how many years we’ve lived. He continues by telling the reader: "Two thirds of our physical ailments and premature deaths are caused by our own deliberate choice of lifestyle and can be delayed or prevented with proper habits."
Carter states that he believes: "Our primary purpose in our golden years is not just to stay alive as long as we can, but to savor every opportunity for pleasure, excitement, adventure, and fulfillment. There is still a difference between how long we live and how much we enjoy living. With reasonably good health, there are two crucial factors in how happy or successful an older person is: (1) having a purpose in life and (2) maintaining quality relationships with others."
"Some sociologists have decided that the three most significant predictors of successful aging are (1) the level of education we have attained, (2) the amount of physical activity that we maintain, and (3) the degree of control that we feel we have over our own destiny." Carter says: "I’m inclined to agree with an elaborate study sponsored by the MacArthur Foundation, which concluded that the three indicators of successful aging are (1) avoiding disease and disability, (2) maintaining mental and physical function, and (3) continuing engagement with life."
"It is a sign of maturity when we can accept honestly and courageously that frustrated dreams,illness, disability, and eventual death are all normal facets of a person’s existence—and that despite these, we can still continue to learn, grow, and adopt challenging goals. The simple things—our own happiness, peace, joy, satisfaction, and the exploration of love in all its forms—are the key to the virtues of life, at any age. You are old when regrets take the place of dreams."
"SOME OF THE most valuable advice I’ve ever received is that it’s better to use recreation to preserve health rather than to use medicines and treatment to regain health."- Jimmy Carter in The Virtues of Aging.
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MICHELE
5.0 out of 5 stars Full of love and wisdomReviewed in France on 22 July 2017
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Being too young to be interested in books on aging, I only bought "The Virtues Of Aging" because it was authored by Jimmy Carter. I did enjoy reading it, and highly recommend it for any age.
Jimmy uses his personal experience to guide us with his heart full of love. He explains how to become happier, and feel useful § at ease.
A perfect gift for your parents, grandparents or aging friends.
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Donna K
4.0 out of 5 stars A book full of heart and wisdomReviewed in the United States on 20 December 2023
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I enjoyed this book! Jimmy Carter and Roslyn have contributed so much since his years as President to helping others. It was a pleasure to read his thoughts on life and aging, especially since I am now a bit older myself. They both experienced an amazing life, and the book is full of wisdom and advice on having a fulfilling, active life after retirement. Jimmy is still a positive presence for good, even today. Although this was written years ago, it is still pertinent today. It is a wonderful reminder that life in your "golden" years can still be happy and full of adventures! The opinions of this review are my own.
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Pete
5.0 out of 5 stars Informative and EngagingReviewed in the United States on 24 July 2024
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I enjoy President Carter's books as they are always very informative and engaging. Since President Carter and his wife enjoyed a long productive life, I thought this would be a good book to read to understand his insights into aging well. It met all my expectations and I highly recommend to anyone with interest in aging well.
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frenchy from California
3.0 out of 5 stars Light readingReviewed in the United States on 2 April 2022
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I expected something much more meaty in ideas but what is here reads easily and has positive tips for how to be productive in retirement.
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Kindle
$9.99
Paperback
$33.15
Jimmy CarterJimmy Carter
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The Virtues of Aging (Library of Contemporary Thought) Kindle Edition
by Jimmy Carter (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 547
Part of: Library of Contemporary Thought (5 books)
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Former president Jimmy Carter reflects on aging, blending memoir, anecdote, political savvy, and practical advice to truly illuminate the rich promises of growing older.
“As we've grown older, the results have been surprisingly good,” writes former president Jimmy Carter in this wise, deeply personal meditation on the new experiences that come to us with age. President Carter had never enjoyed more prestige or influence on the world stage, nor had he ever felt more profound happiness with himself, with his accomplishments, and with his beloved wife, Rosalynn, than in his golden years. In The Virtues of Aging, Jimmy Carter shares the knowledge and the pleasures that age have brought him.
The approach to old age was not an easy one for President Carter. At fifty-six, having lost a presidential election, he found himself involuntarily retired from a job he loved and facing a large debt on his farm and warehouse business. President Carter writes movingly here of how he and Rosalynn overcame their despair and disappointment as together they met the challenges ahead.
President Carter delves into issues he and millions of others confront in planning for retirement, undertaking new diet and exercise regimens, coping with age prejudice, and sorting out key political questions. On a more intimate level, Carter paints a glowing portrait of his happy marriage to Rosalynn, a relationship that deepened when they became grandparents. Here too are fascinating sketches of world leaders, Nobel laureates, and great thinkers President Carter has been privileged to know—and the valuable lessons on aging he learned from them.
The Virtues of Aging celebrates both the blessings that come to us as we grow older and the blessings older people can bestow upon others. An important and moving book, written with gentleness, humor, and love, The Virtues of Aging is a treasure for readers of all ages.
Read less
What are popular highlights?
Previous page
So then, when are we old? The correct answer is that each of us is old when we think we are—when we accept an attitude of dormancy, dependence on others, a substantial limitation on our physical and mental activity, and restrictions on the number of other people with whom we interact. As I know from experience, this is not tied very closely to how many years we’ve lived.
Highlighted by 189 Kindle readers
Our primary purpose in our golden years is not just to stay alive as long as we can, but to savor every opportunity for pleasure, excitement, adventure, and fulfillment.
Highlighted by 168 Kindle readers
Two thirds of our physical ailments and premature deaths are caused by our own deliberate choice of lifestyle and can be delayed or prevented with proper habits.
Highlighted by 119 Kindle readers
Next page
Product description
From the Back Cover
"We are not alone in our worry about both the physical aspect of aging and the prejudice that exists toward the elderly, which is similar to racism or sexism. What makes it different is that the prejudice also exists among those of us who are either within this group or rapidly approaching it. When I have mentioned the title of this book to a few people, most of them responded, 'Virtues? What could possibly be good about growing old?' The most obvious answer, of course, is to consider the alternative to aging. But there are plenty of other good answers--many based on our personal experiences and observations. "
--from THE VIRTUES OF AGING
About the Author
Jimmy Carter (James Earl Carter, Jr.), thirty-ninth president of the United States, is the author of thirteen previous books. In 1982 he became University Distinguished Professor at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and founded The Carter Center, which addresses national and international issues of public policy and attempts to promote democracy, protect human rights, and prevent disease and other afflictions. In 1991, President Carter launched The Atlanta Project (TAP), a communitywide effort to attack the social problems associated with poverty. He also teaches Sunday school and is a deacon in the Maranatha Baptist Church of Plains. For recreation, he enjoys fly-fishing, woodworking, jogging, cycling, tennis, and skiing.
Product details
ASIN : B005FGUNGU
Publisher : Ballantine Books; Reissue edition (24 August 2011)
Language : English
File size : 385 KB
Text-to-Speech : Enabled
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
X-Ray : Not Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Print length : 110 pagesBest Sellers Rank: 40,617 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)1 in Sociology of Ageing
3 in Gerontology (Kindle Store)
7 in Gerontology (Books)Customer Reviews:
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 547
Sort by reviews typeTop reviews
Top reviews from Australia
Vera Randall ... Australia
5.0 out of 5 stars A SINCERE ENCOURAGEMENT TO REDEEM THE TIME AHEADReviewed in Australia on 13 February 2021
Verified Purchase
Based on his research, recollections and clear encouragement to embrace aging and redeem the time ahead President Csrter's work brought joy to my heart and a resolution to put his advice on purpose and planning into action.
HelpfulReport
See more reviews
Top reviews from other countries
Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Suggestions for Living to a Ripe Old AgeReviewed in the United States on 23 October 2022
Verified Purchase
Jimmy Carter asks the reader, - when are we old? He follows up, by Rules saying that the correct answer is that each of us is old when we think we are—when we accept an attitude of dormancy, dependence on others, a substantial limitation on our physical and mental activity, and restrictions on the number of other people with whom we interact; not to how many years we’ve lived. He continues by telling the reader: "Two thirds of our physical ailments and premature deaths are caused by our own deliberate choice of lifestyle and can be delayed or prevented with proper habits."
Carter states that he believes: "Our primary purpose in our golden years is not just to stay alive as long as we can, but to savor every opportunity for pleasure, excitement, adventure, and fulfillment. There is still a difference between how long we live and how much we enjoy living. With reasonably good health, there are two crucial factors in how happy or successful an older person is: (1) having a purpose in life and (2) maintaining quality relationships with others."
"Some sociologists have decided that the three most significant predictors of successful aging are (1) the level of education we have attained, (2) the amount of physical activity that we maintain, and (3) the degree of control that we feel we have over our own destiny." Carter says: "I’m inclined to agree with an elaborate study sponsored by the MacArthur Foundation, which concluded that the three indicators of successful aging are (1) avoiding disease and disability, (2) maintaining mental and physical function, and (3) continuing engagement with life."
"It is a sign of maturity when we can accept honestly and courageously that frustrated dreams,illness, disability, and eventual death are all normal facets of a person’s existence—and that despite these, we can still continue to learn, grow, and adopt challenging goals. The simple things—our own happiness, peace, joy, satisfaction, and the exploration of love in all its forms—are the key to the virtues of life, at any age. You are old when regrets take the place of dreams."
"SOME OF THE most valuable advice I’ve ever received is that it’s better to use recreation to preserve health rather than to use medicines and treatment to regain health."- Jimmy Carter in The Virtues of Aging.
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MICHELE
5.0 out of 5 stars Full of love and wisdomReviewed in France on 22 July 2017
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Being too young to be interested in books on aging, I only bought "The Virtues Of Aging" because it was authored by Jimmy Carter. I did enjoy reading it, and highly recommend it for any age.
Jimmy uses his personal experience to guide us with his heart full of love. He explains how to become happier, and feel useful § at ease.
A perfect gift for your parents, grandparents or aging friends.
Report
Donna K
4.0 out of 5 stars A book full of heart and wisdomReviewed in the United States on 20 December 2023
Verified Purchase
I enjoyed this book! Jimmy Carter and Roslyn have contributed so much since his years as President to helping others. It was a pleasure to read his thoughts on life and aging, especially since I am now a bit older myself. They both experienced an amazing life, and the book is full of wisdom and advice on having a fulfilling, active life after retirement. Jimmy is still a positive presence for good, even today. Although this was written years ago, it is still pertinent today. It is a wonderful reminder that life in your "golden" years can still be happy and full of adventures! The opinions of this review are my own.
Report
Pete
5.0 out of 5 stars Informative and EngagingReviewed in the United States on 24 July 2024
Verified Purchase
I enjoy President Carter's books as they are always very informative and engaging. Since President Carter and his wife enjoyed a long productive life, I thought this would be a good book to read to understand his insights into aging well. It met all my expectations and I highly recommend to anyone with interest in aging well.
Report
frenchy from California
3.0 out of 5 stars Light readingReviewed in the United States on 2 April 2022
Verified Purchase
I expected something much more meaty in ideas but what is here reads easily and has positive tips for how to be productive in retirement.
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Poppy
3.0 out of 5 stars Three Stars
Reviewed in Canada on 1 October 2016
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Good to hear his perspective. Not a self-help type book.
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Carey Taylor
5.0 out of 5 stars I love everything that Jimmy Carter has ever written.
Reviewed in the United States on 18 November 2024
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I love this book.
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Ratmammy
4.0 out of 5 stars Another thought provoking book by Jimmy Carter
Reviewed in the United States on 26 February 2006
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THE VIRTUES OF AGING by Jimmy Carter
February 25, 2006
Amazon Rating: ****
In THE VIRTUES OF AGING, President Jimmy Carter writes about what a senior citizen can do to feel fulfilled and productive in ones last stage of life. As usual, he is quite candid as he writes about his own life, his marriage to Rosalyn, and recounts stories about his family and friends. I always enjoy reading Carter's non-fiction, as he always has some interesting anecdotes, as well as some wisdom-filled stories that he passes on to his readers. Carter never preaches, and I for one appreciate it. In fact, in this particular book he admits (at the end) that he tried to refrain from quoting much from the bible, as he felt it would detract from the topic. But since the church is a big part of his life, he did talk about his own participation with his church and did quote a few times in appropriate places as he discussed issues on aging.
I have to admit I'm rather biased because I have always admired the work Jimmy Carter has done since his presidency. Knowing about the good works he's done in the past few decades, I do not find it difficult at all to see that he's also left his mark in his writings. He's shared with the world what he has learned through his own past experiences as a son, a father, and grandfather, as well as Governor and President of the United States. I'm slowly collecting all of his books and so far have enjoyed what I have read. THE VIRTUES OF AGING was not as structured as some of his other books have been, but I don't think it was meant to be. It is a collection of thoughts and ramblings of aging gracefully, from his point of view.
33 people found this helpful
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David Goodman
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Perspective ...
Reviewed in the United States on 12 July 2024
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He was not just an honorable descent, good president, and he was a good person.
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Ron
5.0 out of 5 stars age of revelation..
Reviewed in the United States on 24 October 2023
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An enduring realistic grasp of “issues” relating to life’s stages and outcomes. A deeply thought out statement on affairs of life, contacts, and events that reflect and often impact our thoughts and actions. A plain spoken essay for anyone needing inspiration in their lives…
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Rose P.
2.0 out of 5 stars
I was looking for depth and I got shallow advice
Reviewed in the United States on 19 October 2023
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I admire Jimmy Carter and was looking forward to reading this book, anticipating his wisdom. The fact that the book was published a quarter of a century ago may have something to do with the lack of true wisdom and insight. He had not reached his pinnacle at that point in time.
I enjoyed reading about the Carters' personal experiences and outlook on life. However, if I need advice about staying healthy and fit in my dotage I'm going to consult the experts, not a man whose pension alone is over $220,000 per year.
It's very easy for someone who doesn't have to worry about money to have a bright outlook. (Yeah, I know money doesn't buy happiness, yadda yadda) Great, Jimmy, you enjoyed your retirement and I'm happy for you. You're a good man who deserves a good life. But, your focus on your world travels, professorship, etc. isn't relatable to someone like me who lives on the edge of poverty. And, yeah, you did mention a few things like gardening and walking for po' folk. There's that.
Yes, of course, it's fabulous to ski the slopes of Taos and observe elephants in Tanzania and climb the Himalayas. That would keep me fit and happy, too.
But, I was seeking wisdom and I didn't find much of it in this book. Yeah, there was a bit of the "aw shucks" persona, the humility that won Carter the presidency, but it didn't come across as all that sincere. Carter mentioned that his books sold "surprisingly well" and I believe this book was fodder for income rather than a true effort to share wisdom and advice. I already know you have to eat right, exercise, etc., but I would have liked to get into Carter's head and discover some of the things that really mattered in his life beyond the superficial.
I wish Carter had written a follow up to this book when he was still well enough to do so. I'm guessing it would be entirely different, as I suspect Carter really grew between 1998 and the present time.
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S. Schrock
3.0 out of 5 stars Not sure what I expected.....
Reviewed in the United States on 18 July 2022
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The book was well written - I could hear President Carter's voice as I read - but it didn't add a whole lot to the subject of aging. Mostly surface stuff and advice that you should have read in your thirties. It does have a bit of personal information in it and I enjoyed that. I am a Republican so Mr. Carter was not my favorite president by any means but it was nice to read of him as a real person. I think if I met him socially and we did not talk politics, I would like him very much.
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booklover
5.0 out of 5 stars
Inspiring
Reviewed in the United States on 3 January 2023
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So enjoyed the words of wisdom from our former president. His faith and his love for others jumps off the page and inspires. Really did not expect to enjoy and learn so much from this book but definitely gave me ideas on how to spend my later years.
4 people found this helpful
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Ray
4.0 out of 5 stars Easy read
Reviewed in the United States on 7 May 2022
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Much of the message is recognizable in my life and then extended by the author's service to our nation. His retirement came at an earlier age than mine with a wide scope of experiences.
2 people found this helpful
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Ladybird
5.0 out of 5 stars Exceeded My Expectations!
Reviewed in the United States on 5 July 2023
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This used book arrived fast and was in EXCELLENT condition. I'm enjoying and learning at the same time while reading this book!
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A fan
5.0 out of 5 stars TBR
Reviewed in the United States on 24 November 2023
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In my stack of TBR,
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Beat all expectations
Reviewed in the United States on 17 May 2023
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Very readable and relatable. Challenged me, which I wasn't expecting from this book. I have already recommended it to others.
4 people found this helpful
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Marnette Bowen
5.0 out of 5 stars
Set a new life path
Reviewed in the United States on 1 July 2014
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This is a beautifully written book and it is helping me gain a new perspective. It has taught me to determine a new purpose for my life and re-dedicate my life. Getting older is not an end - not if I don't want it. It is a time for renewal and rebirth. It is a time for finding new interests and perhaps even a new or renewed purpose. I am so happy President Carter wrote this book. He faced so many worse events at age 56 and beyond - than I could ever face. He has taught me to be resilient and approach my life with a new positive outlook. I love this book. Thank you, President Carter, for re-directing my life.
20 people found this helpful
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D.C.
5.0 out of 5 stars Well written &made me smile
Reviewed in the United States on 9 April 2022
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I read philosophy and various religious thought. It was refreshing to read an [every man's, albeit our President] refreshing and insightful summary. I took notes on note cards, so I will have daily reminders. Well done Mr. President.
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Sue Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Encouraging and affirming successful aging
Reviewed in the United States on 31 May 2022
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I especially enjoy the second half of this book that detailed so many possibilities for those of us who are aging to move into advanced years successfully
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Gabby
4.0 out of 5 stars Wisdom
Reviewed in the United States on 5 October 2014
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He points out interesting facts and statistics of aging. The way he uses personal experience to guide his success in retirement is great. I'm sure this is a great read for older adults, I'm just not quite sure how many actually have the luxury to be successful after retirement as the former president does.
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LIBERO
5.0 out of 5 stars Retiree learning to be useful and enjoying peace and happiness.
Reviewed in the United States on 23 May 2014
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This book is outstanding in laying down the concepts and actions that may be taken to any retiree, me included, and that helped me to put into perspectives what to do with the remaining time of my life. Some of this concept I have been practiced, others just a few and others none. I have work to do for planning and executing my priorities, which at this time I write is not clear to me.
9 people found this helpful
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Nancy Ervin
5.0 out of 5 stars A Bright and Shiny Guide to Aging
Reviewed in the United States on 15 October 2015
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At 73 I am not interested in books on aging but this one is the exception. It is a "bright and shiny" way to look at at aging from the traditional senior age of 55 all the way into the nineties. The outlook is positive despite some of the realities of getting up in years. I would consider it a guide for anyone wanting to be young in attitude and aging gracefully.
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Myself
4.0 out of 5 stars great but stats outdated
Reviewed in the United States on 6 August 2015
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This book has some great insights, but it was published in 1998. The statistics are great, and I enjoyed them, but knew as I was reading that all the current information is no longer current. I wish he would update this book.
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Charles W. Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Am I biased?
Reviewed in the United States on 13 September 2020
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I buy every book that Carter writes and I love them all. They are insightful, intelligent, and inspired. Buy it, read it, and think about it. That's all I can say.
18 people found this helpful
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Susan
4.0 out of 5 stars Surprising little gem of a book
Reviewed in the United States on 1 September 2013
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I'm astounded to find that I liked this book. Some of it (i.e., statistical information) is a bit outdated, and much of the book didn't really reach me, but it's heartening to think that it is possible to age gracefully and with purpose.
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J. Hallada
4.0 out of 5 stars Takes you down to simple living and passionate purpose
Reviewed in the United States on 25 July 2019
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Plain talk from a man grounded in community and dedicated to his passion. Refreshing.
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doug niehus
5.0 out of 5 stars For folks nearing retirement or those younger and looking for direction this is a great read!
Reviewed in the United States on 7 November 2015
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I liked the simplicity of President Carters explanation of what a "good life" is. We are all living a good life as we define it but This is a call to always be looking for something new and exciting.
Love the final quote - you have to read the book to get that 🙂
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m
4.0 out of 5 stars The Carters have done so much with their lives. ...
Reviewed in the United States on 9 May 2016
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The Carters have done so much with their lives. Jimmy is preaching by example but it can inspire us to be more and do more.
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Clif Hostetler
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April 6, 2022
Jimmy Carter is an over achiever when it come to finding something to do after retirement. First he retired from the Navy to become a peanut farmer. Next he retired from being governor of Georgia to become President of the United States. Then he became what some people call the best ex-POTUS ever by establishing the Carter Center, volunteering with Habitat For Humanity, authoring many books (see note below), and serving as a non-governmental third-party negotiator in a variety of international diplomacy issues.
This book is part autobiographic commentary of his post retirement life and it is also part advice regarding how to maintain good physical and mental health in a person's older years. One thought I had while reading this book is that it had many of the characteristics of an long feature article in an AARP publication.
Since I'm also retired I feel a bit defensive about my time of retirement not being as productive and impressive as the author's. So I've struggled to think of something I done that exceeds that of Jimmy Carter. My answer is that I've posted more book reviews on Goodreads.com than he has.
Note:
GR's author page lists in excess of 60 distinctive publications that show Jimmy Carter as author. That apparently includes translations and/or compilations of past speeches, and other publications that are actually duplicates.
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Jim Dooley
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April 22, 2022
THE VIRTUES OF AGING wasn't eye-opening by any means. It was filled with the majority of issues I'd already considered. On the plus side, the writer's "storytelling" style for examples and gentle insights (even when facing challenges such as failing health) kept everything readable.
The main point (although not specifically mentioned as such) appeared to be that if you remained aware of the present, kept seeking opportunities to engage your mind, and sought to treat others with honesty, respect and kindness, then it is likely that you will feel more self-confident and happy in your senior years. My favorite sections involved resources for staying involved in the world, and brief stories of people who achieved terrific things in their seventies, eighties and nineties.
There are also occasional faith homilies and "down home" tales. It never felt to me like preaching, though.
THE VIRTUES OF AGING would be most valuable for people who have a fear of "becoming old," or who are about to enter the Retirement world without having given thought to more than financial considerations. For those of us who have already taken the time to reflect, it is appreciated more as the perspective of a famous person.
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Kate Lawrence
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January 9, 2020
Former President Carter, now in his late nineties, wrote this over 20 years ago. He begins by saying that he was just 56 when he was "involuntarily retired" from being president and had to figure out the rest of his life. He tells quite a bit about his background and family members. Most striking is that none of his three siblings nor his father lived past 65, all of them dying of the same cause: pancreatic cancer. Carter's mother Lillian, widowed at 55, became a fraternity housemother, then nursing home manager, then Peace Corps volunteer at 68. Carter tells us that even into her eighties, she woke up each morning "with determination to make the new day an adventure." She died at 85.
Carter suggests practical ways that seniors can stay positive and engaged in life, through continuing education, participating in sports and fitness as they are able, activities with friends and family, and particularly through volunteering in their communities. He says the two crucial factors determining an older person's happiness and success are 1) having a purpose, and 2) maintaining quality relationships with others.
Overall, the tone of the book is relaxed and friendly, like sitting down for a chat with a wise elder.
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Nancy
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December 28, 2024
I received this book as a gift because I have an interest in presidential history and biographies.
Carter is surprisingly candid about part of his life in this book, such as his bitter disappointment in not winning a second term. We learn how Carter and Roslyn found meaningful activities in their lives and forged new shared interests in retirement.
Overall, the presentation of his ideas and shared stories about his own aging are not very scintillating. For instance, he lists activities they tried with a few sentences about them without deep insight.
One interesting insight is that in 1998 when he wrote the book he did not believe Social Security would be viable for long. We were warned about this in 1973 as newly weds and you can read the warnings in contemporary newspapers. And yet, what has the government done about it, other than raise the retirement age?
The advice is quite generic but still good.
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Robert
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March 29, 2022
Since I'm 76, I decided I'd better read something about aging. The title of this book was intriguing - since being "virtuous" (for once in my life) sounded nice. But, while mildly interesting, it hasn't improved me - and becoming virtuous is no closer than before I read the book. I seem to be doing what I'm supposed to be doing at this age - which was disappointing, since I thought I was maybe exceptional. It was sort of interesting to be reading this now since it was written in 1998 and Jimmy Carter is now 90. I'm fond of the man. Anyone who can fight off an angry swimming rabbit is someone to be fond of. His contributions AFTER his presidency have exceeded those while in office. FASCINATING. There is one thing, however, which I do not intend to emulate. For his "old age," he and Rosalynn decided to settle back in their hometown of Plains, Georgia. You're not going to catch me going back to Des Moines!
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Donna
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December 21, 2023
I enjoyed this book! Jimmy Carter and Roslyn have contributed so much since his years as President to helping others. It was a pleasure to read his thoughts on life and aging, especially since I am now a bit older myself. They both experienced an amazing life, and the book is full of wisdom and advice on having a fulfilling, active life after retirement. Jimmy is still a positive presence for good, even today. Although this was written years ago, it is still pertinent today. It is a wonderful reminder that life in your "golden" years can still be happy and full of adventures!
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T. Rose
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March 1, 2023
A wonderful reminder of a gifted United States president whom I have always respected and loved. A gifted orator and inspiration to me for so long. i really appreciate and admire his service to our country from his youth to this day. I have looked to Jimmy and Rosalynn in reading this book, for guidance in how to go forward as I go forth in my elder years. I loved this book.
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Jeff
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February 18, 2024
A short how-to manual on making the best of growing old, The Virtues of Aging may have better been called “the responsibilities of aging.” Jimmy Carter spends a chunk of this book on statistics and societal reasons for the elderly not to become too much of a burden, but then gets into some ways to make an aging life a happy life. Published when Carter was in his mid-seventies, the now 99½ year old apparently knew what he was writing about!
The book presents a plethora of ideas about things that people can do and enjoy in their seventies, eighties, and beyond. It also has a chapter on some particularly inspirational oldsters, which Carter must have known his name would soon be among.
Offering retirement as a new beginning, The Virtues of Aging has a noble purpose and optimistic outlook. Though it is a little dated, that fact only reinforces the value in the long-matured. This quinquagenarian should quickly heed the ex-president’s advice.
I’m going to start by taking a class on this thing called “the internet.”
bio-memoir
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Gary Anderson
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November 16, 2023
I first read this book when it came out in 1998 after I had the privilege of meeting President Carter at a book signing. I was barely forty, and President Carter was then in his mid-seventies. I enjoyed the book for its positive, pragmatic tone and the anecdotes from the life of someone I’ve always admired. I’m now in my mid-sixities, and I read The Virtues of Aging differently this time. Although some of the details about various programs are dated, the wisdom about aging is just as fresh and valuable as it was twenty-five years ago. Carter focuses on how to navigate the challenges of aging while embrace its joys, and what aging means to age “successfully” can mean. It’s a short book, and one I recommend to others of a certain vintage.
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