Book Review
The challenge of ageing: A multidisciplinary approach to extended care (2nd edn)
Marion W Shaw (Ed)
ISBN: 0443 043574; 200 pages; Churchill Livingstone, Melbourne;
Bridget Swearse
Monash University, Gippsland VIC
The presentation of this book is pleasing. The simple but eye catching cover maintains the standard of the first edition. Lefroy's words have lost none of their impact, though since there have been many writers of note who have addressed the issue of ageing since 1984, more up-to-date references would have improved the foreword and it could possibly have had a more Australian flavour. The preface is straightforward and self explanatory. It is good to see a larger number of contributors with an even broader view than the first edition.
Chapter 1 - The Living Environment by Michael Lindell is an important and necessary overview; however, a more recent reference may have enhanced it.
Cliff Picton's Chapter 3 -Healthy Ageing, is a welcome addition to the second edition by pursuing a very positive view of ageing.
Chapter 4 - Physiological Ageing by John Hurley is an expanded view on that of the first edition chapter and is much improved with the quick reference table (4.1) at the beginning of the chapter and the inclusion of some of the latest research.
Chapter 7 - Incontinence. Cynthea Wellings has approached this chapter with knowledge, sensitivity and an obvious regard for the latest research which seeks to aid and solve the problems of people who suffer incontinence.
The updated Chapter 11 on Assessment by Bernard Worsam is addressing the issues being faced more frequently, by families and the community. The references offered are excellent for students. Chapter 12, also updated - Drugs and Elderly people by John Hurley addresses a vexatious issue - the over medication of the aged. A valuable chapter using the latest research.
The expansion from the first edition of Chapter 16 - Care of Elderly People with Dementia by Penny Phillips highlights some of the many and increasing problems of carers. I liked the references and their inclusion in the chapter is appropriate.
In Chapter 18, Sister Margaret Ryan addressed Care of Dying People. With the development of community palliative care in many areas in Australia, co-ordinated and enlivened by both trained nurses and committed non nurses, I felt this chapter would have been better with a little more recognition of the work done in the community.
My overall impression is of a valuable book for many disciplines. An enhancement of the first edition and one to which I shall direct those students whose clinical practice is in the care of the elderly.
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