The inevitable ageing process does not have to condemn us to solitude, suffering, degradation or dependency. In this meditation on ageing, Marie de Hennezel guides us through a true 'art of growing old'. She recalls her encounters as a clinical psychologist with 'those who grow old gracefully' – and through her experience shows us how to make the most of this time in our lives, to avoid depression and to stay happy. She believes that wherever we grow old and whatever our circumstances, if we can maintain an energy in our hearts and believe in the power of joy and human warmth, this can transform us and the way we look at the world.