Gerontology Books - Page 2

A Place Called Canterbury: Tales of the New Old Age in America

Dudley Clendinen

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 14 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Old age in America is not what it used to be

In 1994 New York Times writer Dudley Clendinen’s mother—a Southern matron of iron will but creaking bones—sold her house and moved to Canterbury Tower, a geriatric apartment building with full services and a nursing wing in Tampa Bay. There she landed in a microcosm of the New Old Age. Canterbury was filled not just with old Tampa neighbors but also with strangers from across the country. Wealthy, middle class, or barely afloat; Christian, Jewish, or faithless; proud, widowed, or still married; grumpy or dear—they had all come together, at the average age of eighty-six, in search of a last place to live and die.

A Place Called Canterbury is a beautifully written, often hilarious, deeply moving look at how the oldest Americans are living with the reality of living longer. Peopled by brave, daffy, memorable characters determined to grow old with dignity—and to help one another avoid the dreaded nursing wing—A Place Called Canterbury is a kind of soap opera. Likewise, it is a poignant chronicle of the last years of the Greatest Generation and their children, the Boomers, as they are drawn into old age with their parents. A Place Called Canterbury is an essential read for anyone with aging parents and anyone wondering what their own old age will look like.

Reverse Aging

Sang Y. Whang

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 32 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

Not science fiction, but a scientific fact! This book is the first common sense scientific explanation of the aging process and "how to" reverse it. The nutrients that we deliver to our cells burn with oxygen and become acidic wastes after giving energy to our body. The body tries its best to get rid of these acidic wastes through urine and perspiration. Unfortunately, our lifestyle, diet and environment prevent our body to get rid of all the wastes that it generates. Gradually, these leftover acidic wastes accumulate somewhere within our body. Since acid coagulates blood, the blood circulation near the waste areas becomes poor, causing all kinds of degenerative diseases to develop. The author defines the aging process as the accumulation of non-disposed acidic wastes within the body. According to this theory, the reduction of accumulated wastes is re verse aging. This book explains how some of the adult degenerative diseases are caused by too much acidic wastes, and describes the various scientific devices and methods to reduce these wastes without any harmful side effects. These devices and methods are being wid ely used in Japan. Alkaline water makers (water ionizers) have been in existence in Japan for more than 40 years. Many in the alternative health industry of water ionizers, magnet and far-infrared devices regard this book as the most comprehensive and up-to-date reference book of its kind in the English language. It is a "must read" for all who are health-conscious.

Still Here: Embracing Aging, Changing, and Dying

Ram Dass

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 33 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Still Way Ahead Of His Time 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

It's been said that Ram Dass was "there" before everyone else. This statement holds true regardless of how you choose to define "there." He continues to show us the way in this, his first post stroke book. Let me quote from the book. "We struggle against the inevitable and we all suffer because of it. We have been trying to find another way to look at the whole process of being born, growing old, changing, and dying, some kind of perspective that might allow us to deal with what we perceive as big obstacles without having to be dragged through the drama of misery. Understanding that we have something-that we are something-that's unchangeable, beautiful, completely aware, and that continues no matter what, really helps."
Ram Dass practices what he preaches. He not only tells us the way, he lives it. That is why we trust him . He's always been ahead of his time. Now, regarding aging, changing, and dying, he still is. "Still Here" is a must read.

Editorial Review:

More than thirty years ago, an entire generation sought a new way of life, looking for fulfillment and meaning in a way no one had before. Leaving his teaching job at Harvard, Ram Dass embodied the role of spiritual seeker, showing others how to find peace within themselves in one of the greatest spiritual classics of the twentieth century, Be Here Now. Now, as many of that generation enter the autumn of their years, the big questions of peace and of purpose have returned, demanding answers. And once again, Ram Dass blazes a new trail, inviting all to join him on the next stage of the journey.

What Are Old People For?: How Elders Will Save the World

William H. Thomas

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 17 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Author's Note 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

The first sentence of Dr. Spock's "Baby And Child Care" does a good job of summarizing my attitude toward aging and longevity: "Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do." We are immersed in a shimmering sea of conflicting ideas and attitudes about aging and it is not surpirsing that people's feelings about aging can be complicated and conflicting. It is for this reason that I have done my best to stake out a "Common Sense" approach to thinking about the impact aging is likely ot have on our society and how that influence can be turned to the advantage of people of all ages.

This book derives its central argument from recent progress made in the fields of biology, mythology, sociology, and philosophy, but its heart belongs to the simplest observations of the way we live now. I recognize that some experts will find fault with some of its specifics. As a devout generalist, I believe that the truth of an important argument can be sustained even when fault can be found with certain of its specifics and I hope that you will agree.

It has been said that people are not interested in books about aging but, in fact, people are always interested in learning more about matters that concern their lives and well-being. The questions that revolve around aging and our longevity increasingly rise to that level. Issues related to aging define some of the most important risks and opportunities that confront our society. We live in an exciting time. There is a new old age waiting to be discovered, ready to be explored. Aging and the aged are not, as so often supposed, the cause of our problems--they are and have always been the source of the answers we need. Our longevity is ready freed from the shackles of prejudice and fear. It can and it will save our world.

Editorial Review:

We live in a society that opposes aging, despite the evidence that each of us is, in fact, aging. This anti-aging bias has prevented us from thinking about old age in a way that feels good or that will create a good elderhood. Removing our ageist blinders, Dr. Thomas provides a motivational and visionary blueprint for old age as a healing force in society.

From Age-Ing to Sage-Ing: A Profound New Vision of Growing Older

Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, Ronald S. Miller

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

In this revolutionary and compassionate book, Zalman Schachter-Shalomi guides older Americans through a spiritual transformation. He teaches readers how to use their life experiences to enrich their elder years, face mortality, repair relationships, develop a regenerative spirit and transmit wisdom to future generations. "From Age-Ing to Sage-Ing" is a glowing testament to the ever-expanding potential of the human spirit. "A wise and inspiring guidebook to the aging process". -- Bernie Siegel M.D., author of Love, Medicine and Miracles "Extraordinary....A magnificent view of aging". -- Larry Dossey, M.D., author of Healing Words: The Power of Prayer and the Practice of Medicine -- As in his teaching, Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi put in this volume much warmth, human compassion, and necessary wisdom". -- Elie Wiesel, winner of the 1986 Nobel Peace Prize Speaking to the audience that embraced the New York Times bestseller Ageless Body, Timeless Mind, a preeminent rabbi and teacher reveals how to turn aging into the most meaningful, wonderful time of life.

Fitness Over Fifty: An Exercise Guide from the National Institute on Aging (With DVD)

The National Institute on Aging

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Subjects -> Health, Mind & Body -> Personal Health -> Healthy Living

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 8 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

"25 exercises you need for wellness along with detailed intructions and photos."—Reader's Digest

Some people just assume that as they age, they will be less physically fit and may lose their independence—but that doesn't have to happen. The National Institute on Aging has brought together a team of experts to offer advice on staying healthy longer, with exercises tailored to be safe and effective for those over fifty. Fitness Over Fifty now includes a follow-along DVD to make this guide to getting started on an exercise program easier than ever before.

Studies show that, in the long term, older adults in all age groups hurt their health far more by not exercising than by exercising. As a rule, older people should stay as physically active as they can. The good news is that just about every older adult can safely do some form of physical activity at little or no cost. And they don't have to exercise in a public place or use expensive equipment.

Fitness Over Fifty, now with DVD, offers practical advice about the four areas that are important for staying healthy and independent: endurance, strength, balance and flexibility. Fitness Over Fifty includes:
• ways to get—and stay—motivated
• advice on stretching and increasing flexibility
• daily, weekly, and monthly exercise and nutrition records and more
• 200 photos; DVD included.

The Mature Mind: The Positive Power of the Aging Brain

Gene D. Cohen

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 15 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

After reading this book I'm more excited than ever about aging productively --- I believe this book can help reduce one's fear of aging. The research is solid, grounded, realistic and inspiring. Pamela D. Blair, Author The Next Fifty Years: A Guide for Women at Mid-Life And Beyond

The Mature Mind 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

We are using this book for discussion purposes in our Harvesting Wisdom Circle. We have found it to be a provocative and enlightening perspective on the issue of aging. It asks the reader to challenge many of the assumtions and myths that we have been taught by our society.

Editorial Review:

The Mature Mind delivers good news for those in the second half of life, with an extraordinary account of cutting-edge neuroscience, groundbreaking psychology, fascinating vignettes from history and case studies, and practical advice for personal growth strategies. Gene Cohen, a renowned psychiatrist and gerontologist, draws from more than thirty years of research to show that surprising positive changes in our brains have the powerful potential to enhance, not diminish, our lives after fifty.

The Joy of Not Working: A Book for the Retired, Unemployed and Overworked- 21st Century Edition

Ernie J. Zelinski

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Total reviews: 56 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

A good book to consult if someone moves your cheese! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

The book is filled with alot of experience and wisdom to ponder. An excellent read if you are considering a major career change but do not know what you want. The book does not suggest you keep a stiff upper lip and take it, so do not read it if you do not want change. You will not be able to look at work or your life the same way when you have finished.

Editorial Review:

Ernie Zelinski has taught more than 150,000 people what THE JOY OF NOT WORKING is about: learning to live every part of your life—work and play, employment, and retirement alike—to the fullest. In this completely revised and expanded edition, you’ll learn how to create an excellent work/life balance by working less, producing more, and being more leisurely; how to gain the courage to leave a life-draining job; and, if you are recently retired or unemployed, how to bring purpose and community back to your life. Plus, new to this edition are 30 inspiring letters from readers detailing how the book helped them live a more exciting and rewarding life. Illustrated with eye-opening exercises, thought-provoking diagrams, and lively cartoons and quotations, THE JOY OF NOT WORKING will guide you to living a more exciting and rewarding life—at work and at play.

Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication

Richard Campbell, Chris Martin, Bettina G. Fabos

By: Bedford/St. Martin's Amazon Marketplace: 86 new & used starting at $0.01

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Why Post A Review For A Textbook? 4 out of 5 stars.
8 of 9 people found this review helpful.

Reviews are somewhat superfluous in light of the fact that this is a textbook and thus you probably don't have any choice about buying it, as was the case with me. Nonetheless, as textbooks go, I'd have to say I enjoyed this one quite a bit more than most. It's remarkably up-to-date, which is vital in media studies (there will undoubtedly be a 6th edition very soon), and it's a very fast and engaging read. The author doesn't always keep his liberal agenda well hidden, but that is perhaps forgiveable in an age of increasingly conserative media. On the whole, this stands a better chance than most of being a textbook that you actually keep rather than trying to cash in as soon as the course is over. I kept mine.

Very interesting 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book is very interesting. Is fun to read and not boring at all.
I really enjoy it.

The Merck Manual of Health & Aging: The comprehensive guide to the changes and challenges of aging-for older adults and those who care for and about them

Inc. Merck & Co.

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Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

"A VALUABLE RESOURCE FOR ANYONE WHO SEEKS A HEALTHIER OLD AGE FOR THEMSELVES OR THEIR LOVED ONES.”
–William D. Novelli, CEO, AARP

If aging were an open book, it would be The Merck Manual of Health & Aging. From one of the most trusted names in medical reference comes an accessible, all-inclusive guide for older adults that shares what measures to take to optimize the aging process, prevent disease, and improve your overall health. This comprehensive book also explains the health care system and the disorders seniors are most likely to experience. Inside you’ll discover clear, authoritative information on

• preventive medical care and good nutrition
• common medical disorders in older adults
• strategies for coping with disease
• steps for finding the best in medical care
• how to communicate with health care practitioners
• the role of alternative and complementary medicine
• the benefits and risks of medical tests
• the challenges of caregiving and rehabilitation
• how the body ages
• safe, easy-to-follow cardio exercises
• the social, legal, and ethical issues of aging

Also featuring candid essays by seniors who share their insights and personal experiences on growing older, The Merck Manual of Health & Aging is an essential home reference for making your later years truly golden.