Health, Illness, and Optimal Aging: Biological and Psychosocial Perspectives

Uniquely bridging a gap in the gerontology literature between the biological and psychosocial aspects of aging, this interdisciplinary text provides key updates on an abundance of cutting-edge research; expands information on diversity issues in aging; and examines in great depth the physiology of aging, theories of biological aging, and methodological issues. Instructors will also welcome the availability of an Instructor’s Manual and PowerPoint slides.

Written for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students, and invigorated by the addition of new coauthors, the third edition integrates findings in biology, psychology, and the social sciences to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary coverage of the aging process. Included is key information on age-related changes and disease-related processes, the demography of the aging population worldwide, theories of aging, and ways to promote optimal aging. From a psychosocial perspective, the book examines mental health, stress and coping, spirituality, and caregiving in later years. Also included is crucial information on longitudinal design and statistics as they relate to research on aging, promising new trends in gerontechnology and Green Houses, and information on health promotion programs. Real-life examples throughout the text help students to understand practical applications of the material.

New to the Third Edition:

• Abundant new cutting-edge research on biological and psychosocial aspects of aging
• Expands information on diversity issues
• Updated theories of biological aging: microRNA, proteasomes, and gut microsomes
• Psychology of aging: How variability in responses to stress affects health and mortality
• Aging and public policy: How the recent recession has affected poverty rates resulting in increases in mortality among poor, middle-aged Whites
• Gerontechnology: The “Internet of things,” assistive devices, and the potential of robots
• Instructor’s Manual and PowerPoint slides

Key Features:

• Examines age-related changes, disease-related processes, theories of aging, and ways to promote optimal aging
• Encompasses mental health, stress and coping, spirituality, and caregiving in later years
• Provides information on aging-related longitudinal design and statistics
• Covers promising new trends such as gerontechnology and Green Houses