Warm, compassionate and important

Lucy embraces the elephant in the room and gently explains why we needn't be scared to talk about and plan for ageing, and even dignified dying. It's coming for all of us, so let's make the most of it, and be assertive about getting the care we need and deserve.

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Superb

This audio book has accompanied me on many miles of dog walks. As my parents are now into their eighties I hope to do my best to know what they might want. The author shows amazing observation and understanding of her many patients, their nearest and dearest and their diversity. I have learnt so much and cannot recommend this book more highly. Thank you so much Lucy Pollock for your work and this book. It could not be bettered in my opinion.

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Sensitive and informative

A sobering book full of things we’d rather not think about which at the same time manages to be engaging and delightful. You feel like a fly on the wall in Lucy’s consultations as she paints novel-like portraits of her elderly patients, their family members and the situations they find themselves in. This title is much enhanced by Lucy’s animated and kindly narration, if only I had a doctor like this I kept thinking. Subjects covered include falls and mobility, medication problems, independence, quality of life, dementia, power of attorney and death itself. There’s an end chapter on Covid’s colouring upon these things.

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Moving and helpful

Loved this book as someone working with older people but equally as someone who is getting older. In a beautifully loving and sensitive way it provides explanations and advice

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Feel better

This could have been written about my dad who at 87 with heart failure has been offered a knee replacement which he thinks will repair him as a whole x I wish the doctor had spoken to me x

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This book contained new information about getting old. Some very depressing. I will continue with walking Yoga and Pilates.

I disliked some sad case histories. A lot of depressing stories. The inevitable old age problems can be lessened with fitness regimes.

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Thought Provoking!

I really enjoyed the honesty and the insight into the dilemmas and emotions faced when dealing with patients and their families.
I would highly recommend it for all ages but especially for over 50’s too!!!

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empathy, knowledge, wisdom and sensitivity

Dr Lucy Pollock writes from a well of experience and love of her work as a geriatrician. I hope that when I am need of the care of a professional who is well versed with the difficulties faced as we get older, that I will have someone as caring, acutely aware and conscientious as Dr Pollock. I listened to her audiobook and was often brought to tears as she explained with such gentlenedd and kindness about the challenges people face when becoming frail and nearing the end of life. She talks about the lawful preparations that we can make that will make the transition easier for patients, relatives and those caring for them and safeguard an individual's wishes for the future. This is a must 'Manual' for people who are getting older and for anyone who is concerned with giving good, thoughtful, person-centred care to those who are becoming or who are already old and vulnerable. A must read to resource oneself and add to one's 'toolkit'.

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A book for all ages - everyone should read it

I can’t praise the book enough. It tackles an impossible subject with great warmth, knowledge and amazing presentation.

I read it to support older people but find that it also forearms me. Just can’t recommend it enough! I am off to buy a paper copy to use as a reference

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Such an important book

An empowering book for the patient and relative - so us all. Informative, accessible, clear, helpful and amusing when appropriate. This book has given me the courage to talk to my mum (88) about her wishes and I'm hoping she will read the book. Deepest thanks to the author who also has a lovely voice ! Highly recommend for all.

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