The international community is facing the pressure of aging societies. In the United States of America, we will shortly be facing the aging of baby boomers, a dramatically large population expected to peak as senior citizens in 2030 at 70 million. Global societies are facing a crisis: lack of adequately trained and emotionally oriented personnel…

Important home and community-based issues in the lives of older adults and caregivers relate to end of life. It is well documented that education on end of life, including curricula and textbook content for health and human service professionals, is lacking. This study analyzed another aspect of education: continuing education sessions offered at…

Analyzed informal support system resiliency in a survey of 700 elderly. Data indicated the role of the informal network is more important than formal social supports. Children were the most likely network members, and most networks were characterized by active communication. (JAC)

Examined the use of public services by 1,080 Norwegian older adults. Results showed more than one-third use public services for the aged (i.e., are institutionalized or receive home help or home nursing). The use of services is affected by both need and demand factors. The family's role is discussed. (JAC)

A two-year postsecondary program in New York City prepares low functioning young adults with learning disabilities for careers in human services such as day care programs and geriatric centers. Students take courses in social skills as well as academic course work and on-the-job training in child care or geriatrics. (DB)

Reviews the contributions of Ollie Randall, a pioneer in the field of aging, and discusses current issues and future directions in gerontology, in five papers presented at the Ollie A. Randall Symposium, at the Gerontological Society of America, 35th Annual Scientific Meeting, Boston, 1982. (JAC)