ADDRESSING ISSUES FACING A DIVERSE AGING POPULATION: SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVES FOR PRACTICE AND POLICY

摘要

The 2015 White House Conference on Aging (WHCoA) put forth a thematic agenda to help guide and shape the landscape for the current and next generations of older adults and their families. This symposium highlights key findings from the behavioral/social sciences that address three themes: retirement security; family caregiving and support services; and elder abuse. Economic and psychological research on the shifting boundaries between work and retirement has shown that a necessary condition for withdrawal from work includes income that replaces lost wages. Drs. Quinn will speak on key aspects of financial security and Dr. James on the importance of connecting on a deep and meaningful level with activities for health and wellness in retirement. Dr. Qualls positions family caregiving work within the context of family life across the lifespan, highlighting overlaps and distinctions between normal family life and caregiving work for older adults whose physical or cognitive challenges require assistance. Older adults and their families, particularly those who are ethnic minority, sexual minority, rural-residing, disabled, and economically disadvantaged, have problems accessing physical and mental health care. Dr. Czaja discusses key findings on the use of technology to facilitate older adults’ aging in place and use of long-term services/supports. Elder abuse threatens the health, safety and well-being of far too many older adults. Dr. Roberto identifies risk factors and outcomes of elder abuse for individuals, families, and communities. Dr. Smyer will provide summative comments and recommendations for translating research to practice and policy changes within the global context of aging.