Physical change and aging: a guide for the helping professions

This sixth edition of a classic multidisciplinary text for students of gerontology continues to offer practical, reader-friendly information about the physical changes and common pathologies associated with the aging process. It places special emphasis on the psychological and social implications of these changes in the lives of older adults. The book is distinguished by its thorough focus on anatomy and physiology and common health problems pertaining to each body system. It emphasizes the positive aspects of aging and demonstrates how the elderly population can gain greater personal control, through lifestyle changes and preventive health strategies, toward the goal of optimal aging. This sixth edition has been thoroughly updated to present new research findings that differentiate "normal" aging from actual pathology and includes substantially updated information on diagnosis and treatment. It incorporates new data from healthy older adults demonstrating that the aging process is not necessarily as devastating as earlier research had indicated. The book provides new data and guidelines on risk factors, nutrition, preventive measures, interventions, and commonly prescribed medications, and includes expanded treatment of complementary and alternative therapies. Also included is an updated discussion of grief, ethical issues, and funeral options. The book reinforces information with practical applications of aging data. Written for students of gerontology, social work, human services, nursing, medicine, occupational and physical therapy, counseling, and elder law, it presents information that is clearly understandable for those without an extensive background in biology or medicine. Additionally, the book is a useful practitioner's guide and an easily understandable book for family caregivers. THIS SIXTH EDITION INCLUDES NEW INFORMATION ON: -Diagnosis and treatment -Behaviors and interventions that promote more control over an individual's aging process -Genetic/DNA theories -Dementia and Parkinson's disease -Immunotherapy -Lifelong health disparities -Animal-assisted therapy -Prayer and meditation -Pharmacogenetics -Geragogy (self-directed learning) -Caregiver health as a public health issue -Natural funerals (biodegradable caskets, burial urns, dying at home)