By Kerry Burnight, PhD – Worthy Books, 2025
Aging well isn’t just about adding years to life—it’s about making those years worth living. Joyspan challenges the idea that longevity alone is the goal. Instead, it puts joy, meaning and connection at the forefront, reminding us that emotional well-being isn’t an optional bonus, but the real measure of a life well lived. That shift in focus can change the way we make everyday choices, from how we spend our time to how we nurture relationships.
Rather than sidestepping the difficult parts of aging—loss, caregiving, financial strain, uncertainty—the book leans into them. The author suggests practical ways to stay connected, such as small rituals like a weekly coffee with a friend, joining interest-based groups or even mentoring younger generations. Purpose, too, is reframed—not only in grand achievements but in everyday acts like volunteering, creative expression or cultivating new skills that keep curiosity alive.
Woven throughout are human stories, including the author’s own family experiences, that make these lessons both practical and deeply moving. The book becomes not just a guide but a companion: encouraging readers to embrace flexibility, seek connection and rediscover meaning, no matter the circumstance.


