Introduction

This book is intended for students of social policy and administration (now usually referred to by the generic term social policy) and gerontology and for all who are concerned about older people. It is hoped that students on gerontology, social science, medical and nursing courses will find it a useful textbook. Professionals such as social workers, town planners, the medical and allied professions, together with those working for voluntary bodies all share an interest in this relatively new subject.