Boomers are heading into (very) old age following a pandemic, a time of overt ageism and deficient eldercare. The front wave, now in their seventies, are on the brink of life changes that will challenge everyone - family, friends, and the health care system too. Recognizing the dire need to meet these challenges, Gillian Ranson investigates what front-wavers are doing to prepare for old age. Regardless of their situation - well off or struggling, partnered on one their own - front-wave boomers share one thing: the need for intimate, caring social ties. Many of them are making these connections with creativity and resilience. Their stories hold lessons for us all.