Growing older without feeling old: On vitality and ageing

The past century has witnessed a revolution.

Less than a hundred years ago, the average Western life expectancy was 40; now it is 80. And there is no end in sight- the first person who will reach 135 has already been born.

It's the most radical change in our society since industrialisation, and natural it raises many questions.

What do longer life spans mean for the way we organize our societies? How can people best prepare themselves for living considerably longer? Does it help to eat less, or to take hormones, vitamins, or minerals? And what can we learn from old people who remain full of vitality, despite illness and infirmity?

Growing Older without Feeling Old is the definitive book on a key issue for the 21st century, written by one of the world's leading experts in geriatric medicine. Combining medical, biological, economic, and sociological insights, Rudi Westendorp explores the causes of the ageing revolution and explains how we can greet it with confidence and enjoy leading longer, healthier, and more productive lives than ever before.



'This is not a glib book about searching for the elixir of youth in a jar or via surgical means, but a serious study, albeit in easy-to-read prose. There's no prescription to prevent mental and physical impairment, but a wide-ranging survey that encompasses societal and economic as well as personal responsibilities to prolong productivity.'
-Thuy On, The Age

' T he message that we each hold the reins to success in life's third trimester is a refreshing tonic in a world awash with quack rejuvenants.'
-Paul Biegler, Sydney Morning Herald

'An entertaining and revealing book about our delayed ageing and death, about astonishing future prospects and our failure to take simple measures to prevent diseases such as dementia.'
-De Volkskrant