How and Why We Age

Library Journal

Hayflick (anatomy, Univ. of California Medical Sch.), a nationally recognized gerontologist with over 30 years' experience in the study of the aging process, presents a cogent response to the question of how and why we age. He not only explores the biological process of aging but also covers such topics as chronological vs. biological aging; longevity, aging, and death; normal aging vs. the myths of aging; demographics; how the human body's systems are affected by aging; theories on aging; attempts to control aging; effects of exercise, nutrition, weight, temperature, and light on longevity; and aging and longevity into the 21st century. The chapters are packed with easily digestible facts, observations, and scientific documentation. To support his statements, he uses reliable data from tested research and reputable statistical sources. This 400-page book should function as a primary resource for gerontologists, health professionals, informed lay readers, and higher education students interested in the process of aging.-Kathy Segrist, Temple Univ., Philadelphia

William Beatty

Anatomist Hayflick has researched and lectured on the biology of aging for 30 yearsexperience made evident throughout this book by his broad factual coverage, lucidity, and occasional humor. Hayflick is as interested in exploding myths as he is in pointing out what is scientifically known and what still needs to be done. By discussing the last, he hopes to encourage young people to enter his broad and growing field, in which the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging is the major pertinent program. The primary division in knowledge about aging arises from discriminating between the effects of aging per se and those of disease. Some researchers, Hayflick shows, confound this separation by referring to abnormal aging, which does not exist. Biogerontologists must keep in mind the wide individual variability in aging, Hayflick says, commenting that if you think cancer is complicated, try to understand the aging process. A useful, well-informed treatment.