Analyzed 300 widowed women, age 60 or older, regarding financial experience prior to widowhood, planning undertaken before death of spouse, and effects on well-being in early widowhood. Results indicated that preparation was associated with somewhat better well-being among widows, but financial experience prior to widowhood had no effect.…

Describes a home equity conversion counseling model in partnership with private sector resources as a possible solution for older Americans who find themselves "house rich but cash poor." Discusses obstacles to widespread acceptance of this concept and future policy implications. (Author/NB)

Introduced 68 families, who were caring for neurologically impaired elders, to legal-financial planning via a 3-hour workshop. A post-study survey indicated that over 90 percent had taken one or more planning actions following the workshop, including the development of specific plans for providing and financing services. Implications for other…

Examined reports of 606 white widows from the Longitudinal Retirement History Survey. Results indicated that many widows had experience in managing money, some had discussed financial survival with their spouses, but less than one-third received financial counseling as widows. A majority of the widows were poor, and experience with handling money…

Tested hypothesis that daily money management services divert vulnerable elders from conservatorship. Assigned community-residing elders (n=63) to money management service or screening by Office of the Public Guardian or Adult Protective Services. Found no difference in rates of conservatorship for those offered money management service.…