Japan's rapidly aging population has become a top policy issue, especially as the increasing costs of pensions and medical care are debated. With the highest life expectancy on earth, the Japanese potentially face long periods of retirement, as well as the possibility of long periods of disability. Although family support of the elderly is thought…

This bulletin examines the causes of the fertility decline in Sweden and the concerns and ambivalence of Swedes about zero population growth (ZPG). The fertility decline is attributed to many causes. In recent years there has been a drop in marriage rates and a sharp increase in non-marital cohabitation. The decline is also related to the…

The elderly make up 11% of the total population of the United States, and senior citizens, particularly those aged 75 and over, are the fastest growing group in the country. Although one-fourth of the federal budget is allotted to their support, many older persons have difficulty in gaining access to the programs designed for their benefit. The…