An Introduction to Gerontology

With the world's population getting increasingly older, there has never been a more pressing need for the study of old age and ageing. An Introduction to Gerontology provides a wide-ranging introduction to this important topic. By assuming no prior expert knowledge and avoiding jargon, this book will guide students through all the main subjects in gerontology, covering both traditional areas, such as biological and social ageing, and more contemporary areas, such as technology, the arts and sexuality. An Introduction to Gerontology is written by a team of international authors with multidisciplinary backgrounds who draw evidence from a variety of different perspectives and traditions.

Table of Contents:
1. Introduction Ian Stuart-Hamilton; 2. The biology of ageing: a primer João Pedro de Magalhães; 3. Fostering resilience, promoting health, and preventing disease in older adults Sharon Ostwald and Carmel Dyer; 4. Ageing and health: managing co-morbidities and functional disability in older people Carmel Dyer and Sharon Ostwald; 5. Social care and older people Raymond Ngan; 6. Cognitive processes and ageing Paul Verhaeghen; 7. The psychology of atypical ageing Bob Woods; 8. Sociological perspectives on ageing Kate Davidson; 9. Retirement Lynn McDonald; 10. Sexuality and ageing Rebecca Flyckt and Sheryl A. Kingsberg; 11. Policies on ageing Suzanne Wait; 12. Cross-cultural differences in ageing Sandra Torres; 13. Technology and ageing Anthea Tinker; 14. Literary portrayals of ageing Diana Wallace; 15. Palliative care for older adults Lynn O'Neill and Sean Morrison; 16. Conclusions Ian Stuart-Hamilton.

About the Author :
Ian Stuart-Hamilton is Professor of Developmental Psychology and Faculty Head of Research and External Activity at the University of Glamorgan. He has been teaching lifespan psychology for over twenty-five years and has written six textbooks including The Psychology of Ageing, which was the winner of an award from the British Medical Association and shortlisted for the British Psychological Society's Book of the Year award.

Review :
'This is a highly readable introduction to the exciting challenges posed by the study of ageing, written by an impressive international group of experts. Its broad ranging character, engaging with topics such as retirement, sexuality, technology and cross-cultural differences, will make it attractive to a wide range of readership.' Peter G. Coleman, Professor of Psychogerontology, University of Southampton 'This text presents a well balanced view of the subject area - making it truly a useful introductory text. I found myself updated and re-educated in many areas. Significantly, a world view to aging and old age is presented. The lexicon of aging, aging services, and elder care is appropriately updated. Everyone interested in gerontology should read this book.' Nicholas G. Castle, Professor, Department of Health Policy & Management, University of Pittsburgh 'This is indeed a good introduction to the many trends seen in a diverse and aging population.' The Psychologist