50 Simple Ways to Live a Longer Life: Everyday Techniques from the Forefront of Science

There's no need to approach the Golden Years with dread, according to science/health journalist Bohan and health aficionado Thompson. The authors contend that a barrage of confusing scientific research, backed by harmful stereotypes, has led to many false assumptions about the aging process, such as the idea that senility and dementia are a normal part of aging. In this compact but informative guide to longevity, Bohan and Thompson help readers sort through the steady stream of health dos and don'ts, offering 50 techniques that they believe will increase a person's life. Readers will discover how to reduce the risk of acquiring a degenerative illness like Alzheimer's as well as how to decrease the risk factors for obesity, heart disease and diabetes. Spending time outdoors, meditating, keeping an optimistic outlook and volunteering are among the proven life-extending strategies the authors mention, in addition to more traditional techniques like maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Despite frequent repetition-the authors devote four separate chapters to eating less food-this book is insightful and accessible, combining hard scientific facts with practical advice.