Abstract:

In the Separate Lives project, part of the Healthy Older People Project (1992), 36 interviews were conducted with women ages 55-80 in the Penrith, Blue Mountains, & Hawkesbury regions of western Sydney, Australia, to evaluate female aging experiences. Participants were interviewed about their social connections, health, & quality of life; factors found to contribute to well-being included living arrangements, ease of communication with family & friends, & contribution to the wider community. A diversity of experiences was revealed; it is suggested that stereotypes about aging be avoided, the elderly be involved in developing policies & programs to address their needs, & the unique circumstances of older women be acknowledged.