This survey was undertaken to record changes in views about aging among older people as well as younger adults. In the 7 years after the benchmark study Myth and Reality of Aging, 1974 was conducted, a number of significant social and demographic changes occurred in American society, some profound economic trends continued, suspicions grew about an impending financial crisis in the Social Security system, and new priorities emerged at both the national and local political levels. Aging in the Eighties updates topics from Myth and Reality of Aging, 1974 with items relating to the experience of aging, social activities and the involvement of the elderly, expectations and attitudes about retirement, and preparation for retirement. Other major issues were explored for the first time, including the economics of aging and retirement, the changing face of retirement and employment after 65, Social Security and the role of government, health status, and health care.
