Healthy Aging Healthy Aging (July 14, 2004)

A handful of books provide roadmap for navigating the aging process

by The Health Library

America is getting older. Thanks to the baby boomer generation, those born between the late 1940s and the early 1960s, the number of Americans over age 65 is expected to nearly double by 2030.

People over 85 represent the fastest growing age group in the U.S. today.Aging presents challenges to us, as individuals and as a nation. While it carries connotations of frailty and loss, it needn't be the only option we face as we grow older. Understanding the process on both a personal and societal level is key. A new book from the publisher of the world's most widely used medical reference book, "The Merck Manual," provides a comprehensive overview of healthy aging.

In essence, a road map to navigate the aging process, "The Merck Manual of Health and Aging" (Merck Research Laboratories, 2004), was written by a variety of experts who specialize in elder care. The book, divided into four sections: "Fundamentals of Aging," "Caring for Self and Others," "Medical Conditions," and "Social, Legal and Ethical Issues," is well organized, making it easy for readers to find the specific information they need. Cross-references, definitions of medical terms, and illustrations, sidebars and tables, support the text and enhance understanding.

Merck adds a human touch to the book, too. Scattered throughout the book are 25 essays in which the authors, some famous, some not, share personal insights about aging.

"The Merck Manual to Health and Aging" may be borrowed from the Stanford Health Library or purchased from most book stores. Visit the Health Library online or in person to find many other resources on aging, including books, videos and e-books. At any of the Health Library's three branches, a library associate will be happy to help you locate the information you seek.

Among the books on aging at the Health Library are: "Living Longer for Dummies," by Walter Bortz; "Mayo Clinic Guide to Healthy Aging," by E.T. Creagan; "Aging Well: the complete guide to physical and emotional health,: by Jeanne Wei; and "Aging Well: surprising guideposts to a happier life from the landmark Harvard study of adult development," by G.E. Vaillant.

Another option are e-books, which may be read from your home computer, free of charge. E-books are accessed via the Health Library Website (http://healthlibrary.stanford.edu). Click on the e-books link, then the Net Library icon. f you type "aging" into the basic search box, you will see more than 20 books available online. One particular e-book of note is "Why We Age: What Science is Discovering About the Body's Journey Through Life," by Steven Austad. Austad, a comparative zoologist, examines the biological paradox of growing older. He asks why humans and animals grow more fragile over time and comes up with some intriguing answers.

The Stanford Health Library has three branches: At the Stanford Shopping Center, on the third floor of Stanford Hospital and in the new Stanford Cancer Center. For more information, call (650) 725-8400.

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