Current policies concerning income in old age are framed in terms of important Social Security and private pension developments. Criticisms of the "new Social Security" are viewed in the context of major problems associated with the options, especially private pensions. (Author)

In this paper the authors examine how the structures of earnings, Social Security, and pension benefits affect retirement behavior. They use an intertemporal model of labor supply, paying special attention to the institutional features of private pensions and Social Security benefits. (Author/SSH)

Recent studies of retirement have recognized the importance of pension plans and social security on the retirement decisions. A pension system that is neutral with respect to the timing of benefits encourages or discourages the acceptance of these benefits and subsequent job separation at any particular age only to the extent that any asset…

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)

Social security systems in many countries must serve different populations of women, both as beneficiaries and as insured workers. As more women are acquiring their own social security rights, it is unclear what jobs they will have, what the benefits will be, what family responsibilities they will have, and what social policies will affect their…

Discusses problems and needs of the Black elderly in terms of social security, medicare and social services, and nursing homes. Also discusses the need for qualified Black personnel in programs designed for the Black elderly, and offers suggestions for legislation and funding. (CMG)

Discusses the socioeconomic causes of the disproportionate level of poverty found among women aged 65 and over. Reasons why Social Security programs are essential for maintaining minimal standards of living for many older women are presented. Specific proposals for bringing about change are included. (AM)

Predicts declining confidence in Social Security, questioning of public's responsibility for elderly, organization proliferation, anticipated labor shortages, and trend to reengage in mainstream society. Sees result as greater emphasis on elderly's productive potential and a "common human need" policy in aging field. (Author/CM)

This document contains six essays examining the history and impact of the social security program on America's economic and social development. "Social Security: The Cornerstone of American Social Welfare Policy," by Malcolm H. Morrison, presents brief background information on the system and discusses the basic principles of social…

Intergenerational competition promoted by the mass media and by groups like Americans for Generational Equality (AGE) is illogical. Concern should be directed at the unequal distribution of power and resources. Programs geared toward particular age groups contribute to society as a whole. (VM)

This issue deals with the future of an age-based public policy. Articles discuss the history of age-based public policy; the competing bases for benefits; population dynamics; Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare; employer policies; and local and state policies. Describes California's Linkages Program. (JOW)

The author argues that, although 1985 statistics suggest that the elderly are better off financially than at any time in recent history, these statistics do not show the whole picture. She states that there must be a change in public policy to prevent future intergenerational conflict. (CH)

The following topics are examined: old age pensions under social security; economic policy as the primary determinant of social policy; the measurement of poverty and its implications for antipoverty policies; race and ethnic relations; the future of private welfare; and the analytic connection between sociology and social welfare. (RM)

Attempts to cut government costs have unfairly focused on social security, disregarding its importance to older Americans. The program also has been perceived erroneously as being on the verge of bankruptcy. Both Congress and the nation, however, must seek solutions to the cash-flow difficulties of the system. (Author/AOS)

The author argues that the nation cannot afford its habit of promoting early retirement. He calls for public policy and employer incentives to encourage longer work lives. (CH)