Marin Discussion Groups Help Older Adults Navigate Life's 'Third Act'

AgeSong Marin offers a supportive weekly experience for those seeking community and personal growth in retirement.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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When Judy Kramer retired, she found herself wondering 'Who am I?' after a varied career in corporate banking, stay-at-home parenting, and nonprofit volunteer management. Kramer joined AgeSong Marin, a discussion group for people 65 and older, and discovered a supportive community to reflect on and navigate the 'third act' of life.

Why it matters

As more Americans reach retirement age, there is a growing need for resources to help older adults find purpose, community, and personal growth in their later years. AgeSong Marin and similar discussion groups offer a space for retirees to share experiences, gain wisdom from peers, and explore how they want to spend this new chapter of their lives.

The details

Kramer had observed her husband's initial struggle to find balance and meaning in retirement. Joining AgeSong Marin allowed Kramer to incorporate aspects of her past careers that she valued, such as learning, self-growth, meaningful relationships, and feeling competent. The group provides a safe space for participants to discuss taboo subjects like aging and death, while also celebrating and supporting each other.

  • Kramer retired after a varied career in corporate banking, stay-at-home parenting, and nonprofit volunteer management.
  • Kramer joined AgeSong Marin, a discussion group for people 65 and older, to reflect on and navigate the 'third act' of her life.

The players

Judy Kramer

A retired professional who lives in San Rafael and joined AgeSong Marin to find purpose, community, and personal growth in her retirement.

AgeSong Marin

A discussion group for people ages 65 and older that provides a supportive weekly experience for those seeking to reflect on and navigate the 'third act' of their lives.

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What they’re saying

“When I retired, I didn't know who I was. I'd had a varied professional career.”

— Judy Kramer (marinij.com)

“Joining AgeSong Marin allowed me to incorporate aspects of my professional career that I valued, such as learning, self-growth, having meaningful relationships, doing things I find of value and feeling competent.”

— Judy Kramer (marinij.com)

What’s next

Individuals interested in joining AgeSong Marin can visit the group's website to learn more about their weekly discussion sessions.

The takeaway

As more Americans reach retirement age, discussion groups like AgeSong Marin provide a valuable resource for older adults seeking community, personal growth, and a sense of purpose in the 'third act' of their lives.