With over fifty years of experience working as a nurse and health care administrator where she worked closely with older people, Bertha D Cooper discusses the intricacies of growing old as a woman. She draws from her professional and personal experience and points out facts and debunks myths associated with women and aging. Comprised of four parts, Women, We're Only Old Once discusses reasons for understanding and educating oneself on the aging process, healthy aging, aging as a woman in America, and the fourth part examines the lessons and purposes of life at this stage including specific aspects such as spirituality. The work is a wide exploration of various significant components that make up each chapter including health, beauty, work, societal attitudes towards the elderly, relationships, and more.

Women, We're Only Old Once by Bertha D Cooper examines and offers solutions for different issues that women face during their old age. It does not avoid difficult topics including illnesses such as dementia or beauty concerns that women consider. It focuses on the facts in each section but its messages also remain encouraging. The discussions show that aging is a stage of life that can be navigated successfully and that can be fulfilling. I loved that its pages are dotted with numerous remarks, perspectives, and life stories from women from different cultural, religious, and professional backgrounds. Their contributions are insightful and enlightening. Cooper’s experience is also evident throughout the book. Women, We're Only Old Once is an important work that every woman, regardless of their age, will find useful. The book achieves its purpose of informing and encouraging the reader.

I have a one-word description after reading Women, We’re Only Old Once! by Bertha D. Cooper…Wowza! Bertha knows what she’s talking about here, being a woman in her 70's herself. As I read, I pictured Bertha sitting beside me, bestowing her wisdom, practical advice, and research. I felt she truly cared about me and my health, in body and mind. The day after I finished the book, I drove straight to the drugstore and purchased a B12 supplement. Bertha’s advice isn’t only on health issues, she also touches on sexuality, mental fitness, spirituality, losses, etc. Her words are memorable: “Embrace growing old,” “Aging is not a disease,” “It’s never too late!” Women, We’re Only Old Once! is one book every woman should have on her bookshelf.

Women, We’re Only Old Once! by Bertha D. Cooper is a wonderful reference for all women at any age. I learned a few tips on my first read-through, and I’m sure I will get more when I read it a second time. Several things resonated with me in this book. Bertha says, “Relationship management to a certain extent is a measure of maturity.” In other words, give yourself permission to cull your friend/family list. If it doesn’t feel good, let it go. I loved all the notes at the end of the book and the references too, for further exploration. Bertha’s research, interviews, and the sharing of experts’ advice shine through. I highly recommend Women, We’re Only Old Once! Remember, it’s never too late… to start good habits, to get involved, and to embrace growing old!