Today more people are living beyond 65 years of age than ever before. The 1980s can be critical in determining the future of the aging, and the advocacy of the social worker can be the decisive factor. (Author)

Explored the life-styles of elderly wanderers and nonwanderers in long-term care. Paired t-tests confirmed hypotheses indicating that wanderers had engaged in a higher level of social and leisure activities and had experienced more stressful events, motoric reactions to stress, and motoric behavioral styles prior to their illness. (Author)

Current governmental policy regarding long-term care of the elderly relies heavily on a medical-model approach that stresses institutionalization. This policy must be redirected to encourage development of viable alternative programs and to support the traditional role of families in caring for their dependent aged members. (Author)

End-of-life circumstances have changed dramatically in recent years. In the past century life expectancy has increased by 62 percent and people are living longer with chronic illness. This article discusses evolving health practices and policies in end-of-life decisions. Treatments to prolong life and provide comfort, and interventions that hasten…

Examines some of the difficulties encountered when elderly married couples apply for admission to an institution. (HMV)

Reports on the results of a systematic assessment of the interpersonal difficulties encountered by in-home service providers serving the frail elderly. Presents a typology of problematic interpersonal situations, along with suggestions for training, assessment, and supervision of clients and workers. (JAC)

Describes a geriatric wellness program in which social work practitioners played a major role. Compared results of a telephone screening test to detect depression with the clinical judgment of social workers. The screening instrument proved effective in assessing a population with a high rate of major depression. (RJM)