Aging Myths

Great Myths of Aging looks at the generalizations and stereotypes associated with older people and, with a blend of humor and cutting-edge research, dispels those common myths. Reader-friendly structure breaks myths down into categories such as Body, Mind, and Living Contexts; and looks at myths from “Older people lose interest in sex” to “Older people are stingy” Explains the origins of myths and misconceptions about aging Looks at the unfortunate consequences of anti-aging stereotypes for both the reader and older adults in society

A grey tsunami is sweeping the land, wreaking social and financial havoc in its wake. Sound familiar? This myth about aging, along with twenty-eight others, is the focus of Getting Wise about Getting Old, which paints a far more accurate and nuanced portrait of old age. In it, experts debunk myths and persistent stereotypes about aging on a broad array of social issues – from retirement (seniors are low-performance workers) to housing (most older adults live in long-term care accommodation), and violence (senior women are not victims of sexual assault) to political participation (seniors are conservative and resistant to change) – deconstructing and countering them with the latest findings. The work of two leading research groups in Quebec, the short and accessible chapters of this vitally important book contribute to a better understanding of the social challenges, as well as the advantages, of an aging society.

Describes how to positively impact the way you age based upon new scientific insights.

Dr. Powell debunks the most prevalent myths about aging and explains why knowing the truth can help one remain physically, mentally and socially vigorous for as long as possible.

For courses in Adult Development and/or Aging, this text separates fact from fiction by contrasting existing myths with the most current empirical data. With a topical approach and a solid research base, written in a style accessible for undergraduates, the text is founded on the authors' expertise in psychology and gerontology. By highlighting important biological, sociological and medical contributions as well, this text gives an interdisciplinary view of this emergent field.

Aging in women has traditionally been defined by the menopause, however it is often social and economic changes which are more important to women. In Aging in Women Linda Gannon redresses the balance. From a feminist perspective, she critically reviews current research and provides a more comprehensive analysis of the psychological effects of life-span changes for older women. Some of the topics she explores include second careers, empty-nest, divorce, chronic illness, retirement and sexuality.

The recent publicity about Alzheimer's disease may be relegating many elderly people to a needless senile existence due to the missed diagnosis of their real illness. As a cardiologist and assistant clinical professor at Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Kra has treated many patients whose senility was reversed through treatment of an underlying problem. He stresses the need for good nutrition, proper medication, and thorough medical examinations for the supposedly senile patient. He urges those who care for the elderly to look for every possible cause for brain failure, not merely accept it as a result of aging. Recommended for most health collections. Robert Schmid, Univ. of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical Sch. LRC, North Chicago -Library Journal.