'How did you get so old?'

The morning when Ann Ingle's grandson asked her that question led to musings on ageing and a life well lived.

Told with warmth and humour, Ann grapples with how ageing has thrown all sorts her way, from losing eyesight and mobility to growing a beard and becoming invisible. But she also celebrates family, loved ones, staying connected, her life's passions, and the woman she has become as she finds ways to greet each day and treasure precious moments and memories.

Ann Ingle takes readers on a funny, honest and moving look at the ups and downs of being an older woman in today's Ireland.



Author's note page 

Prologue 

It doesn't happen overnight 

Who am I? 

Rosemary 

Keep moving 

Low grumblings 

The organ recital 

What do 'old folks' do all day? 

Missing things 

Always there 

The club at St Gabriel's 

Live for now 

Don't let me die with a beard 

Bear with me 

A room of my own 

Respect 

A lifetime of dieting 

Tech savvy 

The white stick 

Mystical matters 

Simple things 

What am I saving for? 

I need to talk about death 

Old woman's hands 

Is that all there is? 

Further recommended reading 

Acknowledgements



All the usual words one would use to describe Ann Ingle seem superfluous: indomitable, free-spirited, stoic, courageous, smart, kind, generous. There are so many lessons to take from this account of ageing, but the one I take is acceptance. It's coming for us all, so best be prepared by reading this marvellous, funny, poignant and wise book, and age as gracefully or disgracefully as we like!



a warm and kind look at living life as an older person. With practical advice on living with chronic conditions and keeping your ageing body moving, along with reminders that life is still something to participate in, not hide away from, Ann brings humour and wisdom to a subject we often ignore. Given Ireland's increasingly ageing population, this is a timely and entertaining read.



An insightful and timely book debunking the myths around ageing, one which will generate compassion and empathy. Ann Ingle paints a beautiful picture of a woman who has lived and continues to live a full, nourishing life. I enjoyed it immensely.



An absolute gem – much like Ann Ingle herself