As improvements in the provision of healthcare result in an aging population in many countries around the world, we must broaden and deepen our understanding of the numerous issues relating to this growing demographic. This key text provides students in a range of related disciplines with an accessible core text that covers a wide range of topics.
Beginning with a presentation of the demographic characteristics of older people, the book details the theoretical approaches that apply to the study of adult development and aging, before proceeding to a thematic treatment of core issues such as health, sensation perception, memory, intellect, social interactions, employment and retirement, and mental health. As in previous editions, the chapters are anchored to individual case studies, which have been updated for this edition. Special feature boxes point toward current understanding and research applications; while key points and issues are separately highlighted as a basis for class discussion.
This authoritative volume provides the latest insights into, and theoretical interpretation of, our understanding of the human aging process.
Table of Contents
Contents ix
Credits and Sources xix
Integrated Themes in Aging and Older Adulthood xxiii
Preface and Acknowledgments xxxiii
1 Introduction to Aging and Older Adulthood 1
2 Theory and Method in Studying Aging and Older Adulthood 33
3 Biological Aging and Health 61
4 Sensation, Perception, and Attention 100
5 Memory 132
6 Intellectual Functioning 165
7 Cognition and Problem Solving in the Everyday World 199
8 Personality and Coping 234
9 Social Interaction and Social Ties 265
10 Employment, Retirement, and Living Arrangements 298
11 Mental Health, Psychopathology, and Therapy 329
12 Coping with Death, Dying, and Bereavement 361
13 Looking Ahead: Aging in the Future 383
Glossary 394
References 408
Index 442
