Love Stories of Later Life: A Narrative Approach to Understanding Romance

“Until recently (when the Baby Boomers came on the scene), scientists have neglected the topic of passionate love and sexual desire in older folks. In this delightful, personal book — filled with up-to-date social psychological research — Dr. Barusch provides a much needed remedy for that omission.”–Elaine Hatfield, Professor, Dept. of Psychology, University of Hawaii

“This book dispels any notion that only young people enjoy romance. In a fun and engaging read, Barusch weaves cases with the most cutting-edge academic information on love in a thrilling tale about how love changes with age. The book is potentially transformative, as Barusch uncovers how in many respects the best is yet to come. Although the content appeals to a broad audience and includes experiential exercises to enhance readers’ awareness about their own experiences, scholars and practitioners from all health professions should read this book.”–Virginia Richardson, Professor, The Ohio State University College of Social Work

“While acknowledging life-course issues of difficulties and losses, and always the problems of trial and error in love, Barusch relates that, in later years, the opportunities are there for strong emotions. Rather than the usual texts on isolated, impoverished, detached, struggling older people, this book brings out the positive aspects of growing older and acknowledges the possibility of being a whole person at every age.”–nsight

“[Barusch] writers for academic gerontologists who have an interest in the study of late relationships…[and] for elders who desire to gain insight into romantic and sexual relationships in later life. Academically, [Barusch offers] new and profound insights…the book is delightful, hopeful and inspiring. It is rare for an author to successfully address two such diverse audiences. I encourage both academic and public libraries to adopt this fine work.”–Stephen M. Marson for Age and Ageing