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rogerjpatterson 's review for:
Successful Aging: A Neuroscientist Explores the Power and Potential of Our Lives
by Daniel J. Levitin
This book addresses many aspects of aging, centering on Levitin's specialty of neuroscience and cognitive psychology, but extending to various physical and social aspects. Although Levitin coins the acronym COACH (for Curiosity, Openness, Attachments, Conscientiousness and Healthy habits) as an approach to successful aging, this is not so much a self-help book as a survey of developing science relating to the aging process on how behavior and treatment can affect the process. While Levitin cites numerous studies and critiques numerous instances of bad science posing as advice, he at least sometimes stumbles when he wanders into areas he is not familiar with, relying on accepted wisdom that is inaccurate (notable in comparing the olfactory abilities of humans and dogs). This is unfortunate because it raises questions about the accuracy of his pronouncements whenever he strays from his area of expertise, which he does often in a commendable attempt to be comprehensive.
Overall, this is a useful and engaging survey of what we know about the aging process and what we can and can't do to improve or lives as we age.
Overall, this is a useful and engaging survey of what we know about the aging process and what we can and can't do to improve or lives as we age.