Preface

It is hard to believe that 30 years have passed since the first edition of this volume was published in 1994. It has been a fascinating process analyzing the situation in 2023 and comparing it to years past, and it is heartening to see the many ways in which older adults around the world have seen improvements in their circumstances. It has also been sobering to consider the ongoing challenges for older adults, including the vast impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Updating and expanding the text has taken on personal immediacy over the years as some of us ourselves are reaching old age. We have taken care of—and in some instances lost—older loved ones. We have adjusted to changes in our physical capacities, activities, social networks, and living situations. As is true for all older adults, these changes have tested our adaptive capacities and required flexibility and, often, courage. Thus, the material in this book has increasing salience in our own lives. This has encouraged us to be ever more mindful of reflecting not only the facts associated with aging but also the emotional realities of the experience.

One bit of evidence about the realities of the aging experience is the changing of the guard as a new editor takes the helm. The teamwork required to ensure a smooth transition is itself a demonstration of ways in which adaptation is required as we age.

Those of you who have read previous editions will note that the content has been dramatically reconfigured. We have tried to ensure a comprehensive picture of aging. We are well aware that this is not really possible in a single volume; even if we could do so, it would be a snapshot in time. Writing and publishing a text of this scope takes time, and science and reality march on in the meantime. We hope readers will check the literature regularly to see what has happened since this book was written and will actively use the online resources. We made a concerted effort to address interprofessional practice as this edition has limited its main focus to occupational therapy. Interprofessional collaboration is more vital than ever and in the best interests of clients.

We hope you will find the new content and features of this book helpful and engaging, and that the updated material is worthy of your time and helpful in your professional and personal lives.