Margie Lachman Recasts Ages 40-60 in New Book as Opportunity, Not Midlife Crisis
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 18
Margie Lachman Recasts Ages 40-60 in New Book as Opportunity, Not Midlife Crisis
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 18
Summary
Primetime, published June 9, argues ages 40 to 60 are often a period of growth and stable or rising life satisfaction rather than an inevitable "midlife crisis."
More than 30 years of Lachman’s research, including the Midlife in the United States study tracking thousands since 1994, underpins that claim and challenges stereotypes linking midlife mainly to decline.
About 45% of U.S. adults in their 40s and 50s are in the "sandwich generation," caring for both children and aging parents—a pressure point Lachman says can also reflect purpose and influence.
Her research also suggests mindset and behavior matter: genetics account for roughly 25%-50% of longevity and health, while modifiable factors such as smoking, blood pressure, glucose and weight can still shape later-life outcomes.
The broader message is that as milestones shift later and people live longer, midlife may extend into the 60s, making it a stage to invest in health, identity and meaning rather than fear decline.