Generativity is a concept first introduced by Erik Erikson as a part of his psychosocial theory which outlines eight stages of development in the human life. Generativity versus stagnation is the main developmental concern of middle adulthood; however, generativity is also recognized as an important theme in the lives of older adults. Building on…

Looks at theorizing in gerontology as career-related activity engaged in by scholars who are prone to same demographic imperatives as other human beings as way of shedding more light on many uses of theory. Uses concept of theoretical generations as means of accounting for succession of models and explanatory frameworks. (Author/NB)

Discusses the problem of designing educational systems for the aged to maximize their potential for success. Suggests that complex changes in working memory occur with advanced age; by understanding the nature of these changes, educational materials can be designed which properly refresh memory and guide comprehension. (JAC)

Using an applied ecological model, this study focuses on contextual risk factors of elder abuse. Five levels of environment were used to interpret existing research on risk factors. Configuration of risk factors provides a framework for understanding the intergenerational character of quality of life for older adults, developing recommendations…

It is argued that ego analytic, disengagement, and symbolic interaction theories of personality share an insufficient consideration of the dynamics of the interaction between developmental and social forces transpiring during the aging period. An alternative, transactional model is proposed. (Author)

Analyzes the effects of the environment on well-being among the aged (N=2,265). Presents a recursive causal model which indicates that perceived health and housing satisfaction contribute the most to well-being among the elderly. Emphasizes the importance of environmental satisfacton and neighborhood sociability. (JAC)

Conclusions were that: (1) meanings of mental health constructs cluster differently depending on the analysis; (2) happiness may be considered the most apposite representative of the mental health constructs employed by gerontologists; and (3) contemporary models of happiness favor neither the expansionist nor contractionist positions as a means…