Paula Span, a columnist for The New York Times Health section, has been focusing on the topic of aging for the past 15 years. Her column, The New Old Age, delves into the challenges and issues faced by older Americans. Recently, she reported on Susan Apel and Keith Irwin, a couple who were unable to downsize due to a lack of affordable housing in their area.
Before joining The Times, Ms. Span wrote for The Washington Post, where she gained an interest in spending time with older individuals and writing about their experiences. This passion led her to write her first book, “When the Time Comes,” which explores the struggles of families with aging parents.
In her column, Ms. Span covers a wide range of topics, from the costs of growing older to the impact of robotic pets as companions. She emphasizes the importance of addressing issues rooted in research and affecting a large group of people, such as the 60 million Americans over the age of 65. The diversity within this demographic ensures that there is always something new and interesting to discuss.
Despite initially thinking she would run out of material, Ms. Span continues to find new and engaging topics to write about 15 years later. She values reader feedback and reads every comment on her articles, recognizing the importance of engaging with her audience.
Ms. Span’s dedication to shedding light on the realities of aging and advocating for older Americans makes her column a valuable resource for those navigating the challenges of growing older. Through her insightful reporting and in-depth exploration of issues affecting the elderly, she provides a platform for discussion and awareness on a topic that impacts millions of individuals across the country.