Addresses some of the perplexing issues involved in understanding and responding to elder-abuse offenders. Offers a typology of offenders to elucidate the dynamics when people mistreat the elderly. (Contains 13 references.) (Author)

Discusses the importance of sharing life stories as a process through which people learn to evaluate, integrate, and accept life as it has been lived. Conducting a life review with someone requires caring and offers an act of intimacy for the listener and the teller. (JOW)

Looks at the reasons that lifespan extension may be forthcoming. Examines social issues including access to life-extending technology; effects on marriage, family, and work; and global concerns. (Author/JOW)

Discusses some of the underlying motivations of business with regard to the aging population of consumers and examines those of mature consumers as perceived by business. Proposes a partnership between business and the network of aging consumers. Presents a case study of the partnership between Rubbermaid and the Wise Owls. (Author/JOW)

Examines the employment and retirement trends of older workers over the past 25 years in the context of the goals set forth in the Older Americans Act. (Author)

Summarizes environmental challenges and discusses the need and opportunity for older adults to actively engage in environmental activism, independently, and with other age groups. Much needs to be done to encourage elders to participate and to develop intergenerational approaches to building a positive environmental legacy. (Author)

Describes the programs of the Corporation for National Service such as Senior Service Corps, Learn and Serve America, AmeriCorps, Foster Grandparents, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, and Seniors for Schools. (JOW)

Describes the dynamics of abuse that is grounded in the abuser's need to gain and maintain control over the victim and will show how relying on the caregiver-stress model may place victims in greater danger. (Contains 16 references.) (Author)

Traditional models for defining mental health have used statistical definitions and symptom-based definitions. In a lifespan psychological approach, mental health in later life is defined as acceptance of the aging self as an active being who creates meaning, maintains maximum autonomy, and sustains positive relationships. (Contains 12…

Reminiscence functions in multiple ways. Reminiscence that is received positively and that is not associated with a negative old age tells a story in progress, still growing and evolving through the process of repetition. (Author/JOW)

Discusses the value that volunteering by older adults brings to individual lives and the benefits to society. Suggests that volunteering provides an enhanced sense of purpose by doing things for others and that understanding why elders volunteer will help identify better ways to support their efforts. (JOW)

Discusses generativity, a concern for future generations and a desire to make one's life count. Uses a fairy tale to illustrate how one person's efforts can produce significant results. (JOW)

Compares cultural stereotypes and images of retirement with the life choices of actual adults. Finds that centrality of purpose and a sense of passion are basic to these adults' image of life in retirement. (SK)

Workplace changes and increased longevity have heightened the need for retirement planning specialists. Specialists are beginning to focus more holistically on life planning and addressing the challenges of technology and the needs of low-income adults. (Contains 15 references.) (SK)

Fear of falling is a threat to the quality of life and independence of older adults. A Matter of Balance is a program that uses cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce fear of falling and improve physical functioning. A randomized controlled trial (n=434) validated immediate and long-term improvements. (Contains 39 references.) (JOW)