Ian Stuart-Hamilton's text on the psychology of ageing has, in its first and second editions, become a "classic" text in its field, and the latest edition looks set to continue the trend. The key objectives of this edition were not only to update the research and debates in the area of psychogerontology, but also to develop some of the areas touched on in previous editions in greater detail (i.e. mental health and research methodology). The result of these revisions is a very readable and academically accessible introductory textbook. On reflection, Stuart-Hamilton's excitement for the potential developments in the area of psychogerontology is perhaps the greatest strength of this textbook. It is likely to engage student interest at undergraduate level and provide a basic platform from which further postgraduate study may progress. For either group, it is unlikely that students will come away from a reading of the text without at least some excitement for 'what may be' in the future of gerontology.
' - Education and Ageing This well-established and accessible text has now been completely updated in an expanded third edition. It includes four hundred new references to the most recent research, and an extended glossary of psychological and neurophysiological terms. Each chapter has been updated to reflect current thinking. The chapter on dementia and intelligence now incorporates ideas about the topical speed hypothesis coming out of cognitive research. The chapter about dementia has been broadened to cover overall mental health. It looks at depression and older people, a growing area of concern. This new edition will be essential reading for all those working with older people, as well as a key text for students. This new edition replaces The Psychology of Ageing: An Introduction, 2nd Edition, ISBN 1 85302 233 0, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers in 1994.
Reviews of the second edition Unquestionably the best, most authoritative introductory review of the cognitive psychology of ageing.should be on the essential reading list for clinical psychologists in training.' - The Psychologist .Comprehensive, well-referenced resource which is accessible and readable.' - British Journal of Social Work It is difficult to find a single area of omission - the range of this book seems to cover every possible perspective. As an introductory text, The Psychology of Ageing is currently unrivalled, and I feel that it is destined to become a classic. I strongly recommend the book to anyone wishing to gain an understanding into the psychological processes of ageing.' - Nursing Standard Well worth reading by anyone.
' - Disability Now I loved it. Textbooks on psychology are not generally my idea of bedtime reading. This one is so beautifully written it gave me sleep deprivation. The author.aims his book to be an introduction, principally for clinical psychologists in training.The topics covered range from epidemiology, through the biological to various philosophical constructs. For psychiatrists there is a helpful compilation of neuropsychological tests in common usage.The style is engaging - a mixture of apparently well reviewed research, embellished with the author's personal viewpoints.
The result is not at all dry' but pleasingly discursive and even witty. I found myself absorbing masses of information.The highlighting of important words and phrases makes it easy to focus on reference points, and perfect for dipping in and out. I definitely recommend it as part of the Old Age Psychiatrist's bench library and my trainees will be encouraged to add it to their list for training.' - International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.