"A VALUABLE RESOURCE FOR ANYONE WHO SEEKS A HEALTHIER OLD AGE FOR THEMSELVES OR THEIR LOVED ONES." William D. Novelli, CEO, AARP If aging were an open book, it would be The Merck Manual of Health & Aging. From one of the most trusted names in medical reference comes an accessible, all-inclusive guide for older adults that shares what measures to take to optimize the aging process, prevent disease, and improve your overall health. This comprehensive book also explains the health care system and the disorders seniors are most likely to experience. Inside you'll discover clear, authoritative information on preventive medical care and good nutrition common medical disorders in older adults strategies for coping with disease steps for finding the best in medical care how to communicate with health care practitioners the role of alternative and complementary medicine the benefits and risks of medical tests the challenges of caregiving and rehabilitation how the body ages safe, easy-to-follow cardio exercises the social, legal, and ethical issues of aging Also featuring candid essays by seniors who share their insights and personal experiences on growing older, The Merck Manual of Health & Aging is an essential home reference for making your later years truly golden.