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Rethinking Aging

Growing Old and Living Well in an Overtreated Society
by Nortin M., M.D. Hadler
Rethinking Aging: Growing Old and Living Well in an Overtreated Society. Univ. of North Carolina. Sept. 2011. c.288p. illus. index. ISBN 9780807835067. $28. PSYCH
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Hadler (medicine & microbiology/immunology, Univ. of North Carolina-Chapel Hill; Worried Sick: A Prescription for Health in an Overtreated America) decries the overmedicalization of aging, arguing that many natural conditions, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, have been redefined as diseases. This has led to unnecessary screening resulting in aggressive (and expensive) treatments that often do more harm than good. Reviewing epidemiological studies, he demonstrates that even simple interventions after age 60, such as lowering blood pressure through diet and drugs, do not significantly contribute to a longer, healthier life. Hadler advocates informed decision making pertaining to all stages of aging, cautioning that no procedure should be undertaken unless evidence clearly indicates outcomes will be beneficial. He also shows that racial, gender, and socioeconomic factors significantly affect longevity, a point also made by Susan Jacoby in her more readable Never Say Die.
VERDICT Hadler's view of aging is cautionary; written in a technical style, it is an elaboration on and slight updating of topics covered in his previous works.
Reviewed by Lucille M. Boone, San Jose P.L., CA , Aug 01, 2011
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