Successful Cognitive and Emotional Aging: A Comprehensive Guide

As the importance of brain health in older adults continues to grow, one crucial aspect stands out: what can clinicians, patients, and family members do to retain and improve cognitive and emotional functioning as they age?

The answer lies in Successful Cognitive and Emotional Aging, a thorough and engaging book that delves into the neuroscience of healthy aging and presents effective strategies for staying lively, engaged, and positive.

A Comprehensive Approach

The book is organized into three parts, each tackling a vital aspect of cognitive and emotional aging. The first part focuses on behavioral and psychosocial aspects, placing cognitive aging in a broad context. It explores thought-provoking topics such as:

• The meaning of wisdom and its impact on aging
• The role of spirituality in healthy aging
• Lessons from centenarians on cognition and emotion

The second part delves into the biological aspects, presenting the scientific foundations of cognitive aging and reviewing research on key factors such as:

• Stress and its effects on brain health
• Resilience and its role in successful aging
• Diet and its impact on cognitive functioning

The third part addresses prevention and intervention strategies in a practical, accessible manner, answering questions such as:

• What environments encourage physical activity in older adults?
• How can we promote resilience and well-being in older age?

Noteworthy Features

This book stands out for its ability to bridge the gap between popular science and academic approaches, making it an invaluable resource for clinicians, patients, and family members alike.

One fascinating story showcases the benefits of an innovative intergenerational school, demonstrating the power of meaningful activity for both older participants and the community as a whole.

The book also presents findings from a 70-year longitudinal study, identifying the coping strategies that contribute to well-being in older age. The editors summarize the most promising strategies for successful aging, applicable to a large majority of the population.

A Timely Resource

As the baby boomer generation reaches what was once considered “old age,” the demand for evidence-based strategies for retaining and improving cognition will continue to grow. Fortunately, it’s never too early or too late to start working toward the goal of improving brain health.

Successful Cognitive and Emotional Aging is a timely and comprehensive resource, providing clinicians and consumers of healthcare with the tools they need to promote successful aging.