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Anthropological Perspectives on Aging

Online ISBN:
9780813067629
Print ISBN:
9780813069593
Publisher:
University Press of Florida
Book

Anthropological Perspectives on Aging

Britteny M. Howell (ed.),
Britteny M. Howell
(ed.)
University of Alaska, Anchorage
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Ryan P. Harrod (ed.)
Ryan P. Harrod
(ed.)
Garrett College
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Published online:
21 September 2023
Published in print:
21 February 2023
Online ISBN:
9780813067629
Print ISBN:
9780813069593
Publisher:
University Press of Florida

Abstract

Taking a holistic approach to the study of aging, this volume uses biological, archaeological, medical, and cultural perspectives to explore how older adults have functioned in societies around the globe throughout human history. As the world’s population over 65 years of age increases, this wide-ranging approach fills a growing need for academics and service professionals in gerontology, geriatrics, and related fields. Case studies from the United States, Tibet, Turkey, China, Nigeria, and Mexico provide examples of the ways age-related changes are influenced by environmental, genetic, sociocultural, and political-economic variables. They help explain how the experience of aging varies across time and space. These contributions from noted anthropological scholars examine evolutionary and biological understandings of human aging, the roles of elders in various societies, issues of gender and ageism, and the role of chronic illness and “successful aging” among older adults. This volume highlights how an anthropology of aging can illustrate how older adults adapt to shifting life circumstances and environments, including changes to the ways individuals and families care for them. The research in this book can also help researchers, students, and practitioners reach across disciplines to address age discrimination and help improve health outcomes throughout the life course.

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