ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents the growing differences in mental ability among those in the 3rd Age of life and the behaviors that influence the quality of the aging intellect. It focuses on women and men who are approximately 60-80 years of age and those who care about and for them. The book provides evidence-based strategies for helping older adults who are under care or on their own live more fully. Free of the major obligations of work and family, in relatively good health, and rich in discretionary time, people in the 3rd Age can enjoy the renewed potential to live life much more on their own terms. 3rd Agers comprise the core of volunteers whose regular commitments of time and talent enable many community organizations to function. People may believe their cognitive activities can be enjoyed in the presence of even severe physical impairment.
