Encyclopedia of Aging Book

This four-volume reference for high school students and above overviews all aspects of aging as studied through the disciplines of biology, medicine, economics, law, psychology, sociology, and history. In addition to the physical changes that occur in the later years, 415 alphabetically arranged signed articles by leading scholars discuss religion, spirituality, ethics, the policies and practices that promote well-being for older people, the changes that occur with an aging society, and miscellaneous related topics such as the effect of divorce, senior housing, retirement and health-care options, widowhood, and others. Entries include cross-references and bibliographic information. The volumes contain organization addresses and web sites, and about 300 b&w illustrations. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

"As our population ages, interest and scholarship in issues surrounding our later years have intensified. From the general to specific, the 400-plus well-referenced entries cover an impressive range of medical, psychological, sociological, public-policy, and biological subjects. There are good cross-references, along with bibliographies at the end of each article and a handy list of of articles grouped by topic areas. Whether you are looking for information on genetics, social theories of aging, mental health, or pensions and Social Security, this four-volume encylopedia presents information to the general reader while serving as a good starting point for either the high-school or college researcher."--"The Best of the Best Reference Sources," American Libraries, May 2003.