A practical guide to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases in the elderly. Authored by experts in the fields of cardiovascular disease and geriatric medicine, the book features 21 chapters focused on common cardiovascular problems and the best ways to treat or prevent them. Background information on age-related changes in the cardiovascular system and on the epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in the elderly is followed by an outline of the basic principles of treatment and management. Specific topics include the problems of drug therapy in this age group and the importance of psychological management as a component of therapy. A second group of chapters provides detailed information on the incidence, clinical manifestations, and treatment of 11 different cardiovascular conditions and diseases. Preventive measures are described in the concluding chapters, which offer guidance in the assessment of cardiovascular status and in the advice that can be given to patients in order to promote changes in lifestyle. The manual is sufficiently detailed to be used as a standard reference for general physicians or a teaching text for medical students.