As boomers move towards retirement the phenomenon of"population aging" has become a much-publicized issue.Independence and Economic Security in Old Age focuses on theeconomic and social implications of aging at the level of theindividual and of society as a whole. The product of a three-yearresearch program, the book contains chapters by recognized experts inthe fields of economics and econometrics, sociology, social work,medicine, epidemiology, gerontology, and nursing.

The book first looks at some basic demographic issues, including thedefinition of "old," the changing age distribution of thepopulation, and the demographic outlook for the next several decades.It then moves into the area of family relations, health, and economicsecurity. The concept of "independence" among the elderly isexamined and the degree of preparedness for old age by differentelderly or soon-to-be elderly cohorts is considered. The measurablesocial contributions of the elderly are also discussed in juxtapositionwith the benefits they receive. The book continues with an examinationof the saving behaviour of the elderly, the appropriateness of theConsumer Price Index as a measure of inflation, the incomes of olderwomen, and how the tax-transfer system affects the incentives ofCanadians to save for retirement.

Comprehensive and innovative in its consideration of the issues andimplications of aging, this book will be a valuable resource forspecialists and non-specialists interested in issues of populationaging, for students of gerontology, economics, sociology, healthstudies, social work, and women's studies, and for socialplanners and policy makers.