Why this author wrote about creative women as they aged: They made much of less

AI News Q&A (Free Content)

Q1: What motivated Susan Gubar to write about women entering a new creative phase as they age in her book 'Grand Finales'?

A1: Susan Gubar was inspired to write 'Grand Finales' to explore the often-overlooked creative resurgence many women experience as they age. This phase is characterized by a newfound freedom and self-expression, as women are liberated from earlier societal constraints and responsibilities. The book highlights how aging can be a period of significant artistic and personal growth for women, countering common stereotypes about aging.

Q2: How does the concept of grandmothering relate to longevity in women, according to recent scholarly articles?

A2: Recent scholarly articles suggest that the concept of grandmothering is closely linked to women's longevity. The 'Grandmother Hypothesis' posits that post-menopausal women contribute to the survival of their kin by supporting their offspring, which in turn may have driven the evolution of longer lifespans in humans. This hypothesis is supported by models showing that grandmothering can lead to a transition from great ape-like longevities to human-like longevity, emphasizing the evolutionary advantage provided by post-reproductive lifespan.

Q3: What does current research say about the impact of menopause on women's longevity?

A3: Current research indicates that menopause itself does not negatively impact women's longevity. Instead, the end of fertility is seen as a stage that aligns with evolutionary adaptations, where women continue to play a crucial role in their communities through the grandmother effect. Studies reveal that women remain healthy and active beyond menopause, contributing to their families' and communities' well-being, which is a factor in their extended lifespans.

Q4: What are some scientific insights into the mortality of women who reach extreme ages?

A4: Scientific studies on women who reach extreme ages suggest that mortality rates stabilize after a certain point. Research using extreme value theory and survival analysis indicates that beyond the age of 108, the mortality rate remains constant, showing no substantial difference between genders. This suggests that genetic and environmental factors play a role in achieving such longevity, with no physical upper limit on human lifespan being approached.

Q5: How is creativity linked to longevity in aging women according to recent research?

A5: Recent research posits that creativity is positively linked to longevity in aging women. Engaging in creative activities has been associated with improved mental health and cognitive function, which can contribute to a longer, healthier life. Creativity provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which are crucial psychological factors that enhance the quality of life and potentially extend lifespan.

Q6: What challenges do researchers face in studying the longevity and creativity of aging women?

A6: Researchers face several challenges when studying the longevity and creativity of aging women, including the need for longitudinal data to accurately assess long-term patterns. Additionally, controlling for diverse cultural, social, and economic factors that influence both creativity and longevity poses a significant challenge. The complexity of these interactions requires interdisciplinary approaches and larger sample sizes to draw conclusive insights.

Q7: What does recent research suggest about the societal contributions of women in their later years?

A7: Recent research underscores the significant societal contributions of women in their later years. Women often engage in community activities, volunteer work, and continue to provide family support, which enriches societal cohesion and intergenerational relationships. Their accumulated life experiences and wisdom also contribute to cultural and social capital, highlighting the importance of viewing aging as a period of ongoing contribution rather than decline.

References:

• Why does women's fertility end in mid-life? Grandmothering and age at last birth
• Human mortality at extreme age
• Evolution of longevity, age at last birth and sexual conflict with grandmothering