A consideration of how reading may change in retirement and old age, demonstrated in relation to five books by women.

Explores retirement and women, many of whom are economically insecure when they retire. Argues that, because of prevailing myth among women that they will be cared for in old age and fear of aging, women often do not aggressively plan for retirement. Contends that women's movement should begin to advocate for women's preparation for realities of…

There exists a crucial need for research concerning the attitudes, values, and interests of people in late adulthood. An increased knowledge of this period of life could serve to enhance the quality of all life. (SK)

Presents personal and professional musings on becoming and being an old woman. Older gerontologist discusses personal experiences of being both a researcher and a subject in gerontology. Considers various age and gender norms and how such norms are enforced. (Author/NB)

Presents case of attempted suicide of 66-year-old female, along with comments based on the chapters of this special volume on suicide among the elderly. Specific topics of demographics, psychiatric-psychological, object relations, the attempts, and concluding comments provide an idiographic illustration of suicidal behavior in an older adult.…

Uses a feminist analysis to critique health promotion, identifying gender, class, race, and age biases that influence older women's health and recommends changes in health promotion theory, research, practice, and education. (Author/JOW)

Older women face such barriers to educational access as stereotypes, poverty, funding, and the burdens of caregiving. A broader curriculum should challenge societal expectations and roles, address the impact of race and class, and recognize and value the experience of older women. (SK)

Explores emergence of concepts of advantaged elder and feminization of poverty. Calls it paradox that society has simultaneously embraced these two concepts when elderly population, especially subpopulation of those who are very old, is overwhelmingly female. Examines theoretical shortcomings of both concepts and proposes broader model of economic…

Emphasizes need for feminization of geriatric mental health and calls attention to issues for older women. Warns that few mental health professionals are knowledgeable about gender differences in development or about late life development/aging. Notes that therapists who rely on personal experience with older persons, both positive and negative,…

Social security systems in many countries must serve different populations of women, both as beneficiaries and as insured workers. As more women are acquiring their own social security rights, it is unclear what jobs they will have, what the benefits will be, what family responsibilities they will have, and what social policies will affect their…

The quest for economic security for older women calls for a balance between government standards and public programs. Four components of an action agenda to improve the quality of life for older women are education, legislation, litigation, and negotiation. (SK)

Gender equity is an issue for males and females, for persons of all colors and all ages. Home economists' knowledge and skills in the areas of work and family provide them with a unique opportunity to deal with the issue. (JOW)

In developing countries, older women are seldom part of the development agenda in spite of the fact that they are major supporters of emerging social orders and contributors to the stability of relationships. The well-being of older women must be recognized as a political question. (JOW)

Discusses the socioeconomic causes of the disproportionate level of poverty found among women aged 65 and over. Reasons why Social Security programs are essential for maintaining minimal standards of living for many older women are presented. Specific proposals for bringing about change are included. (AM)

This document contains six essays examining the history and impact of the social security program on America's economic and social development. "Social Security: The Cornerstone of American Social Welfare Policy," by Malcolm H. Morrison, presents brief background information on the system and discusses the basic principles of social…