Images of Aging in America, 1994

During 1994, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) conducted a survey to explore the different images, perceptions, and attitudes that Americans have toward aging, how those images have shifted over time, and how perceptions of aging differ among population subgroups. Respondents were asked about the factors that determine when men and women become "old," the best and worst things about being over 65, and problems experienced before and after age 65. Regarding intergenerational conflict, respondents were queried about levels of respect between people over 65 and people younger than 65, influence exerted by retired persons, and the share of government benefits allocated to older persons. Other areas of investigation focused on life satisfaction, health status, anxiety levels, and levels of contact with people aged 65 and older. Demographic characteristics of respondents include age, sex, marital status,living situation, and employment status.