Handbook of Active Ageing and Quality of Life. From Concepts to Applications

The Handbook on Active Ageing and Quality of Life introduce fresh ideas and inject new energy into the study of ageing and applied gerontology in the twenty-first century. Contributors to the Handbook on Ageing and Quality of Life share with their readers the many ways in which caring societies and older people themselves, as active members of society, are responding to the challenges of the demographic revolution. 

The handbook invites readers to appreciate the many advances in gerontological scholarship, research and practice. Richly nuanced descriptors of active ageing, such as ‘healthy’, ‘productive’, ‘successful’ and ‘positive’ ageing, feature in the handbook. Authors speak of ‘enhanced’ well-being and ‘positive’ quality of life. Their scholarly discussions examine the history of these two key concepts and the linkage between them: Are active ageing and quality of life identical or fraternal twins? Is this distinction important or not?

The scope of the handbook is broad and addresses a readership made up of scholars, practitioners and policymakers as well as the interested public.

Further sections of the handbook present outcomes of projects and policies that make it possible for older people to age in place, to develop agency and to live in dignified and secure environments. Authors share their experience of the many lessons learnt from the application of a wide range of practical projects and new policies.