Drawing upon role theory, aging is defined as the patterned flow of individuals through a series of positions, roles, role sets, and position sets. From this perspective, the aging process is one of continual adaptation to transitions in social positions and associated role relationships. Data on the retirement transition are used to test and give support to the generalization that processes of anticipatory socialization (previous preparation and adjustment) aid adaptation to social transition. Exploration of the influence of social rank on intensity of socialization experience shows that, the higher the social rank, the higher the anticipatory socialization to retirement. Finally, the theoretical importance of focusing on formal properties which cut across all changes of social position, is emphasized. (Four tables and 22 footnotes are included.) (Author/LY)