The aging process is subtle and constant, from the moment of birth to the end of life; yet many people conceptualize it as a perceptible - if distant - event. Assembling works from distinguished professionals in such disciplines as gerontology, psychology, and the health sciences, Promoting Successful and Productive Aging offers a thoughtful assessment of our expectations, experiences, and requirements as we become older.

Emphasizing a proactive strategy, the contributors define primary prevention within a life span perspective, examine the social construction of ageism, and discuss the demographics of successful aging. A wide range of biological and psychosocial issues is explicitly addressed, from chronic disease and dementia to autonomy and diversity within the older population.

1. Addressing the needs and concerns of the most rapidly growing segment of society, this comprehensive work will be an excellent resource for advanced students and practitioners alike.