Purpose: This article assesses the state of research on assisted living (AL) from 1989 to May 2004. Design and Methods: We undertook keyword searches for AL research and amplified these with searches of Web sites, conference proceedings, and follow-up inquiries. We annotated and coded the resultant items according to categories reflecting the…

Reviews the existing literature on the perceptions, knowledge, and use of services by the elderly. Results suggest many elderly do not hold positive attitudes towards services, a bare majority appear aware of services, utilization rates are extremely low, and the correlates of service use are not well understood. (JAC)

Examines earlier conceptualizations of successful aging and calls for a reformulation that is more responsive to developmental processes and theoretical guidance. Discusses issues of operational definitions, selective sampling, and stage theory. The perspective is illustrated with empirical research in the personality realm. (Author)

Reviews current knowledge on the encouragements and constraints affecting educational participation of older people. Reports the finding from a study of active older participants that content and sponsorship are the most important reasons for educational participation. (Author)

Discusses the "5 percent fallacy," which refers to the number of older people living in institutions at a given time, and the likelihood of an older person dying in an institution. Three articles discuss research methodology, data interpretation, and measuring techniques. (JAC)

Analyzed the historical development of the original set of 12 Multidisciplinary Gerontology Centers (MGCs) and assessed their organizational performance and success. Creation of a strong foundation based on multiple budgetary and environment components was the critical factor that predicted the continuing success of an individual MGC. (Author/JAC)