Discusses emotional, social, medical, and nutritional needs of older people, and stresses the need for education of the families of the elderly and the need for a coordinated approach to service delivery to this population. In this way, maximum independence of the aged can be achieved. (NRJ)

The United States Commissioner on Aging describes challenges posed by the increasing size of the older adult population, outlines gaps in knowledge regarding aging and the elderly, and calls for greater collaboration between the elderly and existing mental health networks. (AOS)

A review of the literature and personal interviews with mental health administrators and other informed persons revealed that multiple inservice and preservice educational needs exist among administrators serving the aged in hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities, mental health centers, and mental health associations. Specific…