Books & Publications

From a bestselling memoir to paradigm-shifting research, Rachel’s work offers practical wisdom for anyone ready to challenge outdated narratives about aging and mental illness.

An elderly woman in a red sleeveless top and blue jeans smiling and holding a yellow ball in her right hand while standing outdoors.

COMING SOON

Becoming Zestie: 9 Pathways to Enriching Later Life

Successful aging isn’t what you think it is. Over the course of a 15-year longitudinal project called ORANJ BOWL, Dr. Rachel Pruchno followed nearly 6,000 adults in New Jersey. Only 300 participants consistently rated their aging experience a perfect 10, and surprisingly, they weren’t the healthiest or wealthiest. Interviewing 50 of these people, Rachel found that they shared nine learned behaviors that helped them think differently, stay connected, and live with purpose. She called the people Zesties. This book shares her findings in a science-backed, plain-language, and engaging guide to aging successfully. Becoming Zestie offers practical, real-life tools anyone can use to age successfully, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Surrounded by Madness

A Memoir of Mental Illness and Family Secrets

Beyond Madness

The Pain and Possibilities of Serious Mental Illness

Peer-Reviewed Articles

Dr. Pruchno’s published research spans over 125 peer-reviewed articles in leading medical and scientific journals. Topics include resilience in older adults, caregiving, long-term care, and health disparities. These studies have shaped policy, influenced practitioners, and advanced the national conversation on aging.

Editorials & Op-Eds

Dr. Pruchno’s editorials and opinion pieces bring research to life, connecting complex scientific findings with real-world experiences. Drawing from her decades in the field and her lived experiences, she explores aging, mental health, public policy, and equity in later life. These pieces offer accessible insights for general audiences and have appeared in major platforms ranging from scholarly journals to national media.