Women respondents, aged 66 to 76, provided exact answers to an average of 90 percent of the questions they were asked. Reliability ratios, which were calculated for the many variables, including use of contraceptive methods, were comparable with those observed in previous studies of women in the childbearing years. (Author)

Reports problems connected with retrospective life span interviews of Australian older adults (N=204). Sources of bias arising from interview situations and interviewer/respondent interactions are discussed. Results suggest retrospective analysis deserves respect for factual potential. Gerontology research must also respect the integrity of the…

Defined competence as effectiveness in dealing with one's environment and assessed (N=27) independently living older adults. Results found higher levels of competence were associated with a more demanding environment, and engaging in more activities. Cognitive test performance was related to both competence and quality of lingiustic tasks. (JAC)