UNDERSTANDING COMMUNICATION AND AGING By Jake Harwood

Abstract

This book is meant for new students of gerontology. As a text, it is engaging. As a book, it is hard to put down. Divided into four main sections, Understanding Communication and Aging begins with clarification of how he defines the word ''aging''-passing of time for an individual (p. 4). Harwood sets the tone of the book by establishing the language he chooses to use as well as the rationale for examining aging through a communication microscope. He continually sets his ''shared language'' throughout the book. Each chapter begins with an outline of its contents and ends with a glossary of keywords and theories as well as questions for discussion. Part One reviews biological and biomedical approaches to aging as well as the psychological, sociological, and life-span approaches to aging. It continues with a discussion on pathological reasons for change in communication as one ages.Part Two explores attitudes about aging and interpersonal communication from all avenues including stereotypes, identity, attitudes, intra-and intergenerational communication with older adults and enhancing communication with them. Part Three addresses representations of older adulthood and the role of mass communications as well as media portrayal of older adults. The chapter rounds out with a discussion of culture as a mediator in our relationships with older adults.