Book Review: Peter Thornton, The Later Years: The Simple Guide to Organising the Rest of your Life (Bedford Square. 2025, 337pp, paperback, £10.99)
The only flaw with this book is its title, as it suggests that it is only relevant for those who identify themselves as being in their later years (or for those close to such people). It is, in fact, a book that anyone of any age should read to prepare for life’s inevitable unknowns. Written by Sir Peter Thornton KC, the first Chief Coroner of England & Wales, the book sets out to provide practical guidance for a whole host of things that are all too often put off for a rainy day. In straightforward and clear terms, the book covers such issues as: making a lasting power of attorney and a will, setting out your wishes regarding medical treatment and wider care concerns, planning financially (including covering care costs), avoiding scams, and the rights of older persons. It also provides a necessary route through what to do after death for those who are left behind (I would also in this regard recommend Cariad Lloyd’s You Are Not Alone to help with the emotional load that death brings). It is a book that I wish that I had had a time when I needed to deal with the administrative after-effects of sudden death, and know that I should be implementing to make sure that I have my death file suitably arranged for when the time comes.
Full disclosure: I am very grateful to the publishers for providing me with a copy; I also gave some assistance in relation to the sections relating to advance decisions to refuse treatment / DNACPR and mental capacity matters.
