We investigated preparation for age-related changes from a multidimensional, life span perspective and administered a newly developed questionnaire to a large sample aged 30-80 years. Preparing for age-related changes was organized by life domains, with domain-specific types of preparation addressing obstacles and opportunities in the respective domains. Preparing for a third (focusing on activities, leisure, work, fitness, appearance) and a fourth age (focusing on emergencies, dependence/independence, housing, financial arrangements) emerged as superordinate categories of preparation. Different age gradients were obtained for the factors, the former peaking around the age of 65, whereas the latter increased linearly up to the age of 80. Furthermore, preparation factors were characterized by distinct personality profiles. The findings attest to the importance of a differentiated view on preparation for age-related changes and its relevance across the life span.