Researchers and practitioners have jointly applied research technology and data to a wide range of practical problems. The program has resulted in: greater use of knowledge by practitioners, the development of applied research goals by academicians, and the basis for ongoing collaboration between research and practice. (Author)

Focuses on continuity in evolution of scientific knowledge about aging. Taking 25-year perspective, uses selected research questions and priorities in biomedical, behavioral, and social domains of aging to exemplify continuity of gerontological knowledge base. Notes considerable evidence of continuity, despite influences of changing cohorts of…

Provides prelude to subsequent articles in issue by setting stage for discussion of continuity and change in the field of gerontology. Defines gerontology as social system through which generations of gerontologists flow. Notes that, as people move through system, gerontology evidences both continuity and change in themes, theories, and methods.…

The factor analytic model of the practitioner-oriented "Opinions about People" was tested with a population of gerontological practitioners. An analysis eliminated nine items not warranting inclusion in the instrument, redistributed the factors, and brought out a completely new factor. (Author)

In devising training programs for gerontological service providers in Pennsylvania, attention was focused on determining to what extent inservice training improved the quality of or skill with which services were ultimately delivered. The Gerontology Manpower Project is recommending a client or consumer-oriented approach, as evidenced by project…

Passage of landmark legislation in the form of the Older American Act initiated a broad program of research and training in the area of adult development and aging and social gerontology. Various types of model programs emerged around the country. One type is the State-recognized consortium (University of Michigan and Wayne State University) while…

The project investigated the effectiveness of an evironmental therapy training program for geriatric mental health workers when used in two different institutional settings. Site A was a State-operated facility for psychiatric in-patient care, accommodating 2,000 patients, with emphasis on maintenance and general patient welfare. Site B, a former…

The development of trained manpower in gerontology for the delivery of health and social services to older adults in Pennsylvania is the focus of an ongoing adult education program at The Pennsylvania State University. This paper discusses the theoretical and methodological bases for this program, with emphasis on the importance of linking…

Reviews the contributions of Ollie Randall, a pioneer in the field of aging, and discusses current issues and future directions in gerontology, in five papers presented at the Ollie A. Randall Symposium, at the Gerontological Society of America, 35th Annual Scientific Meeting, Boston, 1982. (JAC)

Age differences in attitudes toward aging were investigated as a function of three-hour training program with 322 women (18-74 years) from various geriatric health care and social service contexts. Results indicated few instances of unfavorable attitudes toward aging in any age group. (Author)