A Man’s Guide to Healthy Aging: Stay Smart, Strong, and Active

College of the Holy Cross medical sociologist Thompson and University of Maine gerontologist and professor of social work Kaye offer a helpful, upbeat guide that covers major health problems, preventative care, and social and spiritual concerns that contribute to good health. The authors have vetted the text with numerous medical professionals and base their discussions on extensive research. They begin with chapters devoted to health management, emphasizing the importance of staying active, eating healthy food, and maintaining social connections. Moderation of alcohol consumption, eliminating tobacco use, and developing spiritual practices are also repeatedly suggested as preventative measures. Alongside obvious subjects like cancer and heart disease, the authors discuss sexuality, holistic medicine, retirement, and caregiving. They conclude with a discussion of end-of-life matters, such as wills and advance directives. Though there is no discussion of vegetarian diets, for instance, and coverage of diseases is limited to the most common ones, this is a valuable resource for all middle-aged and older men. 51 b&w illus. (Nov.)