The "new gerontology," built on the concept of successful aging, sets forth the preconditions for and the end product of the process of aging successfully. Focused on health and active participation in life, it vests largely within individuals the power to achieve this normatively desirable state. While acknowledging the contributions of the…

Interpretations of aging in film parallel concepts and theories in gerontology. This article examines gerontological themes, such as wisdom and guidance roles, in this popular film. The ubiquity of aging motifs in popular film offers gerontology a significant opportunity for public education. (JPS)

As society ages, changes in education will include: the development of educational services for older people; the preparation of qualified personnel to serve the elderly; the education of the public about the processes of aging; and the acceleration of efforts to expand and deepen the knowledge base about aging. (MLW)

With time, an increasing number in the world population is becoming old, and changes in the aging brain mean that a significant proportion of the aged are likely to be dependent on others. The devotion of resources to research into the aging brain could bring benefits far outweighing the investment. (Author/CW)

Identifies challenges to the social work profession in an aging society including the shortage of gerontological social workers, lack of gerontological expertise and competence, negative attitudes towards older adults, inadequate social work curricula in aging, and cutbacks in federal resources. Offers strategies for enhancing gerontological…

The article addresses special problems of aging in persons with mental disabilities, including needs of persons living out their lives in institutions, normalized services for community residents, early preparation for aging, and appropriate residential placement. (DB)