"The Encyclopedia of Aging and Health is both a comprehensive reference of best practices across gerontology-related fields and a philosophical work that inspires its readers to embrace a loftier and more global view of aging beyond disability and medications." -Gerontologist As an ever increasing percentage of the population of western societies enters "old age," health issues grow in importance in terms of the well-being of this population, economic impact within the health-care system, impacts on families and family relationships, and so many other ways. The Encyclopedia of Health and Aging presents state-of-the-art research and ready-to-use facts on health and aging. This one-volume resource captures some of the excitement of the research in the field in terms of new findings as well as conceptual developments guiding research, practice, and policy. With more than 200 entries, it covers the biological, psychological, social, and economic aspects of health and aging and impacts within the health-care system. This Encyclopedia also focuses heavily on geriatrics with respect to geriatric syndromes and common diseases of aging. Key Features Addresses a full spectrum of topics, including acute illness, Alzheimer's disease, bereavement, economic dependency, health-care costs, health promotion, hospice care, long-term care, medications, nursing homes, optimal aging, public policy, quality of life, spousal care-giving, widowhood, and much more Discusses landmark studies such as (Duke Longitudinal Studies, the Established Populations for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly, Health and Retirement Study, and the National Long Term Care Survey) as well as important programs (Social Security, Meals on Wheels, and Medicaid/Medicare, etc.) Offers cross-disciplinary coverage with contributions from the fields of gerontology, epidemiology, health psychology, biology, sociology, health and medicine, and public policy Provides health and aging issues from around the world including Mexico, Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand Includes a list of 45 online resources on health and aging Key Themes: Aging and the Brain Diseases and Medical Conditions Drug Related Issues Function and Syndromes Mental Health and Psychology Nutritional Issues Physical Status Prevention and Health Behaviors Sociodemographic and Cultural Issues Studies of Aging and Systems of Care The Encyclopedia of Health and Aging is a must-have reference for any academic, as it appeals to a broad audience such as scholars within programs of gerontology and health, graduate students, members of the media, policy makers and health-care advocates, and the general reader.