A fundamental issue facing the global community is meeting the
challenges of population aging and achieving healthy aging to maintain
an active older population and reduce the number of disabled people.
The focus of this book is on theoretical issues and empirical findings
related to trends and determinants of healthy aging, including factors
related to "healthy longevity" of the oldest-old, aged 80 and over. The
group is the most rapidly increasing elderly sub-population and is most
likely to need assistance in daily living in all countries. Chapters
include both longitudinal and cross-sectional data from North America,
Europe, and Asia in country-specific studies and cross-national
comparisons.
Part I focuses on the definition, components, concepts, measurements,
and determinants of healthy aging, and discusses the trends and patterns
of disability and healthy life expectancy at the macro level. Part II
addresses individual healthy aging, including its biological and
socio-demographic aspects. Part III focuses on issues concerning the
family and healthy aging, and Part IV explores formal and informal care
for healthy aging through governmental policy interventions and
community service programs.