Dr. Coles introduces us to eleven men and women over the age of 75 living on their own. These older Americans share their thoughts, memories, aspirations, and worries, and tell us what it means to be old. Their stories are full of humor and hope, told with courage and dignity. The photographic essay by Alex Harris and Thomas Roma provides an important visual dimension to this book. Harris photographed in Durham, North Carolina, and Roma in his native Brooklyn. Whether rural or urban, black or white, rich or poor, these elderly people emerge as strong and inspiring individuals who deserve our respect and admiration, and who show us how to live our later years to the fullest.