Older Americans almanac

Library Journal

This almanac addresses frequently asked questions about aging, indicates useful resources, and directs users to other informational sources. Unlike other references that present statistics only on such topics as health, living arrangements, education, income, employment, etc., the volume's 38 chapters cover experiences of and attitudes toward aging from Colonial times to the 1990s and into the next century. Essays discuss the process of aging, diversity, politics and government, retirement, relationships, health and wellness, lifestyles, etc. A reference section provides lists of organizations, a general bibliography, keyword index, and suggestions for further reading and research. Comparable to the Encyclopedia of Aging (LJ 4/15/87), this resource would supplement any gerontologist's library collection and would be a useful tool for classroom discussion and student research needs and a resource on positive images of aging for the general population.-Kathy Segrist, Temple Univ., Philadelphia

From The Critics

If there is any doubt that the population is aging, the number of recent books dealing with all aspects of aging will certainly convince the skeptics This title is similar in concept to such other Gale sources as "African American Almanac" and "Hispanic American Almanac" ["RBB" Ap 15 93]. It incorporates some of the statistical information from the "Statistical Record of Older Americans" ["RBB" Je 1 & 15 94]. Eleven major topics are organized into 38 chapters. The focus is on aging-related topics, facts, statistics, and interpretation of research. Self-help and how-to materials are included only in the bibliography. Sections include aging processes, employment and retirement, finance, relationships, health, elder care, and lifestyle. Chapters in the demographics section, for example, cover the history of aging, population growth, and gender and ethnic diversity among the older population. The technology section includes chapters on the attitudes of older adults toward technology and a discussion of medical technology and assistive technology available to this group Statistical tables, charts, and graphs illustrate the points made. Where appropriate, directory information is given for agencies, organizations, and businesses. Throughout the book, profiles of outstanding, innovative older people are featured in highlighted boxes. Black-and-white photographs add interest. Access to the information is provided through the detailed table of contents and the subject index This is a serious overview of the aging population, which expands on the statistical information. For example, demographic terms are explained, and factors that influence the aging of a population are explored. Aging legislation and national policy are reviewed as are the attitudes and policies of organized religion toward the elderly Colleges, universities, and professional schools with gerontology programs will find this title a useful purchase. Public libraries may also want to consider it.