This article is based on the premise that there is inadequate attention to the link between theory and applied research in social gerontology. The article contends that applied research studies do not often or effectively employ a theoretical framework and that theory-based articles, including theory-based research, are not often focused on…

In this article, the author discusses what life will be like in 2035, and what its implications will be for the way in which health education is practiced. He states that in the next 25 years health educators will have to leave their comfort zones and take a calculated risk with some radical and more creative approaches to health behavior change.…

The concept of "successful aging" is a contested discourse in gerontology. Two conflicting paradigms dominate the discussion: a health promotion activity model, and a model critical of the concept of successful aging. However, this study takes a different perspective and proposes that perhaps we have been striving for the wrong goal. The true…

In this paper I propose that interest in "narrative" within the human sciences is comparable to interest in "chaos" within the natural sciences. In their respective ways, theories on narrative and theories on chaos are aimed at appreciating the dynamics of complex, multi-dimensional systems which otherwise resist our attempts to predict, measure,…

To successfully practice geriatrics, one must keep up-to-date with rapidly evolving knowledge, recognize heterogeneity among older people, seek answers through longitudinal studies, and accept no symptoms nor loss of function as being simply old age. Functional loss must be the focus and thus rehabilitation is essential to good geriatric care.…

Looks at the current trend within educational gerontology to adopt "program standards" for gerontology instruction in higher education. Suggests that quality cannot be guaranteed through the imposition of standardized curricular organization. Proposes the need for program quality and faculty development. Presents recommendations for professional…

Describes the development of gerontology as a major science, and reviews the contributions of Dr. Edmund Vincent Cowdry to the field. Autobiographical as well as biographical material is presented. (JAC)

Asserts that the recent growth of graduate programs in gerontology has been fostered, at least in part, by the perception that careers in the field are numerous and that they are expanding. Questions about these assumptions are raised, along with some doubts about the wisdom of encouraging further program growth. (Author)

Uses as vehicle the history of "Speculative Excursions into the Everyday Lives of Old People" sessions at Gerontological Society of America's Annual Scientific Meetings to present semiserious discussion of place of humor in gerontology. Describes purposes of sessions, reactions of colleagues, rejections of papers, and hopes and future prospects of…

The concepts of career and status passage reflect an imagery of humans capable of exercising choice and negotiating their way through life. Later life is seen as a unique status passage in that it is inevitable, irreversible, and does not lead to any subsequent status. Controlling the passage therefore assumes great importance. (Author)

There are at least 14 advantages of aging. Advantages to society of older persons include their lower criminal activity; greater political participation; increasing voluntary organization participation; work abilities; and visual perception abilities. Advantages for the individual include less criminal victimization; fewer accidents; social…

Discusses reports of several conferences and surveys on aging regarding the necessary training for those working with older people. Suggests that the number of gerontology doctoral programs will increase due to the increasing numbers of very old persons with their corresponding needs. (JOW)

The problem-oriented biomedical framework shaping health care should be replaced with a more optimistic, collaborative, humane, goal-oriented approach for geriatrics and gerontology. This perspective uses a functional, open-ended definition of health and views illness and death as essential features of life. (SK)

Argues that social gerontologists have adopted biomedical model of senile dementia, neglecting social factors involved in definition and interpretation of brain disease and in experience of dementing illness. Critiques biomedical model, including definition of pathology, attribution of behavioral changes to disease stages, and legitimation of…

Presents personal and professional musings on becoming and being an old woman. Older gerontologist discusses personal experiences of being both a researcher and a subject in gerontology. Considers various age and gender norms and how such norms are enforced. (Author/NB)