This research-based yet highly engaging textbook for undergraduate and masters-level college students ushers in a new paradigm of aging-that of aging as a positive stage of life. It offers an interdisciplinary perspective on the broad range of topics that comprise gerontology, using theoretical and research-based information while providing engrossing narratives and real examples of new trends, surprising findings, and controversial topics.

The volume dispels many of the myths about aging through careful reporting of facts, issues, and trends. It sheds a positive light on getting older by viewing the elderly and near old as a diverse, capable subset of our population. A discussion of roles in the family, workplace, and greater society along with physical changes, health, sexuality, living environment, work, retirement, and cultural considerations reveal the challenges and opportunities faced by our rapidly aging population.

Key Features:

Conceptualises aging in America as a positive social revolution with far-reaching consequences
Dispels negative myths about aging
Engages the reader with vivid narratives
Includes practical applications of knowledge throughout the text
Provides instructor's manual and resources for additional learning opportunities
Targeted to the needs of undergraduate and masters-level gerontology students