Americans 50 and older are at greater risk of losing personal and financial autonomy, and thus have a greater need to know and understand their legal rights. That's one of the driving ideas behind the American Bar Association's new "Legal Guide for Older Americans" (Times, $13, paperback). A full chapter is devoted to recognizing and avoiding scams aimed at older people. And each chapter ends with phone numbers and addresses for more information.

Also in a legal vein, "The Legal Resource Directory" (HALT, $10, paperback), published by a non-profit legal reform group, offers hundreds of sources for free and low-cost legal information. Subtitled, "Your Guide to Help, Hotlines & Hot Web Sites," the 180-page paperback includes chapters aimed at seniors, car owners and those seeking help from the government. If you can't find the directory at a bookstore, you can order it directly from HALT by calling 888-367-4258. Shipping and handling will cost an extra $3.95.