The Handbook of Gerontology: Evidence-Based Approaches to Theory, Practice, and Policy provides an essential source of important theoretical and applied information on gerontology for all mental health professionals interested in optimizing the health and well-being of older adults.

Interdisciplinary and incorporating the most current evidence-based practices in its focus, this timely book considers the many factors that affect the way this growing population experiences the world-and provides a positive and proactive guide to administering care.

Integrating the latest research findings with important practice implications for working with an older client population, the Handbook of Gerontology draws on a multidisciplinary team of expert contributors who provide coverage and insight into a diverse range of topics, including:

• A global perspective on aging
• Elder abuse
• Family caregiving
• Parenting grandchildren
• Depression
• Substance abuse
• Alzheimer's disease
• Successful aging and personality
• Biological and cognitive aspects and theories of aging

Contents

Part I: Introduction

1. Global Aging

Part II: Evidence-Based Theory

2. Biological Aspects and Theories of Aging
3. Cognitive and Affective Theories of Adult Development
4. Personality Theories of Successful Aging
5. Wisdom and Life-Longing
6. Sociological Approaches to Understanding Age and Aging

Part III: Evidence-Based Health Practice

7. Health Promotion
8. Disability
9. Sleep Disturbances
10. Sexuality and Intimacy
11. Depression
12. Substance Abuse
13. Alzheimer's Disease
14. Grief and Bereavement

Part IV: Evidence-Based Family and community Practice

15. Parenting Grandchildren
16. Family Caregiving
17. Community- and Facility-Based Care
18. Elder Abuse
19. Health Decisions and Directives about End of Life

Part V: Conclusion

20. Global Challenges for an Aging Population

Index

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