You Staying Young: The Owners Manual

The book is a learning tool for individuals who want to understand their aging bodies and minds, and to slow their aging. The main message is that if you take care of yourself, you can have a high quality of life and possibly increase your lifespan.

The first section explains the aging body and how it can stay young. It presents a number of “Major Agers,” such as toxins, calorie consumption, and UV radiation. Layman’s terms are used throughout each chapter to explain biological systems in an easy-to-understand format. Cartoons are also incorporated into the book, making learning easy and entertaining. The authors use comical scenes to represent functions of different biological systems. Also included are “You Tips” – helpful suggestions on how to improve your health in many areas to combat aging.

Part two of the book is titled the “Extended Warranty Plan.” It includes a fourteen-day plan to get the readers started on developing healthy habits such as exercise, trying new activities, and health monitoring. The authors use the assumption that it takes at least two weeks for a behaviour to become a habit. This section also includes a collection of “You Tools” or instructions for health practices such as deep breathing and meditation stress management, and a step-by-step exercise routine.

This book is a useful resource for readers who have limited knowledge of how their bodies work and want to start taking action to improve their longevity. By giving the reader knowledge of their body in addition to advice on health practices, the authors allow individuals the opportunity to become more empowered. The illustrative presentation of information makes “You Staying Young” a unique learning tool and resource guide for anyone who wants to improve their health.

Reviewed by Jennifer O’Hagan, Program Assistant, Alzheimer Society of B.C.