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 brochure presents the facts about the financial situation of older women. It explains the vital role of Social Security (SS) for women and offers suggestions to improve their financial outlook. A true/false checklist tests knowledge about women growing older and remaining financially secure. These reasons for poorer older women are outlined:…

The testimony provided in these hearings addresses the most fundamental problem facing older Americans today, i.e., economic security. The report discusses the results of expanding social services and income transfer programs to reduce poverty, and examines ways to increase older adults' economic self-sufficiency through expanded employment…

Although the older person's economic stiuation has improved, older women, minorities, and rural residents have incomes significantly lower than those for the older population in general. Older married women may appear to be financially secure, but many of their resources often disappear when their husbands die. Widowhood or divorce endangers the…

Older adults are generally satisfied with moving to the seaside, and are motivated by a more congenial physical environment and social advantages of living with retirees with similar interests. Unfortunately social and health services have not kept up with the demand. (JAC)

Retirement is a recent phenomenon, with accompanying financial stress as income drops, and psychological strain from a loss of career identity. However, individual differences in attitudes and expectations vary with age, education, income, and between retirees and non-retirees. Needs after retirement may remain the same as in pre-retirement while…

Counselors have an important role in providing help with the transition from preretirement planning to postretirement adjustment. They must examine their own bias and suggest alternatives to the worker role such as part time employment, hobbies and activism. (JAC)

People aged 65 and over, and particularly the "old old," i.e., 75 and over, are the fastest growing age group in the United States. This group numbers 25 million in 1980, 11% of the population, with women outnumbering men by 5 million. Although a quarter of the federal budget goes to their support, poor coordination among federal programs for the…