Some of the major steps taken in selected market economies of Western Europe, North America, and Asia to strengthen their pension systems are presented. Countries that are examined include Australia, Austria, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Federal Republic of Germany, Japan, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. (CT)

Social security systems in many countries have reached or may soon reach a state of crisis in terms of funding old age pension and other benefits. A reassessment of the appropriate role of public pension provision in the total income flow available to retirees is needed. (JOW)

Reports on discussions of 30 United States and Canadian experts at a meeting on policies and problems concerning midlife and older women. Discussion focused on income security and long-term care. Includes future prospects. (CH)

One phenomenon that will attract the attention of social welfare historians is the change in perception of the roles of public and private pension systems. This change has led to a shift in attitude that will affect the structure of social welfare benefits of public and private systems. (JOW)

Comparison of union retirees in North America and Europe shows similar challenges facing unions: increased diversity and the changing nature of union membership, appropriate role of unions vis-a-vis other organizations representing older persons, and unions' role in changing employment practices regarding older workers. (SK)

This is the first part of a two-part article that examines the growing phenomenon of formal preretirement education efforts around the world designed to ease the transition to retirement life. Part I provides an overview of the movement. It discusses program sponsorship, sites, resources, timing, content, and structure. (CT)

This is the second of a two-part article that examines the growing phenomenon of formal preretirement education (PRE) efforts around the world designed to ease the transition to retirement life. Part II focuses on policy issues that have been raised by evaluations of existing PRE programs. (Author/CT)

Details findings of an OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) study concerning the social and labor market implications of aging populations. The article includes a demographic profile, impact on social expenditures, and the response of policymakers. (CT)

Discusses measures that have been adopted by France, Great Britain, Sweden, the Netherlands, the United States, and Japan to prolong the work life of older workers. Measures include job transfer and exemption, dismissal protection, retirement policies, and reintegration of unemployed older workers. (JOW)

Examines the world response to population aging. Discusses national, regional, and international activities, such as conferences, campaigns to promote an active aging, employment projects, and community alternatives to institutional care. Policy responses are considered, involving employment, income, health, housing, family, consumerism,…