In the course of the author's research into media representations of vulnerability and disability at end of life, she came across two local news stories, both thoroughly reported on by the "Winnipeg Free Press". In November 1998, doctors at a long term health care facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba insisted on entering a "do not…

We extend an evolutionary perspective of development to the lifespan, proposing that human longevity may be related to the experience, knowledge, and wisdom provided by older members of human groups. In addition to the assistance in childcare provided by grandmothers to their daughters, the experience of wise elders could have served to benefit…

Discusses the confusion surrounding the concept and term "productive aging," and indicates that it means different things to different people. (JOW)

This special issue provides international comparisons of black seniors in South Africa, Ghana, Jamaica, Bermuda, and the United States, focusing on policy and program issues. The challenge is to ensure true equality of opportunity so that black seniors in the future will not be in the disadvantaged position of today. (Author)

Presents ethnographic observations on the aged and aging from six months' residence in Siberian industrial city. Describes interactions with medical personnel and reviews scanty literature in Soviet Union. Notes integration of aged in families and respect given to older persons. Discusses problems of elderly caused by hard living conditions,…

Focuses on a particular aspect of voluntary activity that is the subject of a pan-European program--life experience counseling by those who have lived long enough to know what are the important things in life. (Author)

Notes that research on aging mind has moved from simple growth versus decline view to conception of joint consideration of potential and limits. Sees this development illustrated by research on two categories of cognitive functioning: the cognitive mechanics (comparable to fluid intelligence) and cognitive pragmatics (comparable to crystallized…

Senior enterprises--small businesses enabling older people to earn income and remain productive outside the traditional work setting--have been successfully developed in many countries. Program considerations include economic feasibility, relationship to social security and tax programs, linkages with the broader community, and training and…

Older people who suffer from a sense of powerlessness, helplessness, and low self-esteem are inadequately helped by existing services. A community work approach can help them become active and empowered individuals with stronger contacts with the community. (SK)

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)

The Older Students Research Group (OSRG) was formed in the United Kingdom Open University in 1981 to examine the educational implications of an aging population, to look at older students, and to evaluate the potential of distance education as a mode of study for older learners. (Author/JOW)

By skillfully structuring volunteer assignments, organizations can be successful in persuading a significant number of retirees to accept assignments and to devote a minimum of two days a week to those assignments. (Author/JOW)

Notes a critical examination of fundamental assumptions of gerontological research reveals problematic sources of concept and theory development. When empirical findings conflict with researchers' theories, the latter must be reexamined and revised. Claims the aged themselves should be looked to for new hypotheses, and focus should be on such…

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…

Issues of aging and elder care are growing in importance. Policy and strategy should focus on prevention and health promotion. Affordable, accessible care balanced between home and institutions must be available everywhere. Education and training in elder care and changing the attitudes of the public about aging are essential. (SK)