The book is a textbook for preparing students for positions in professions through which the needs of older adults are met. It is a manual for in-service training of agency staff, aides, and technicians and serves as a guide for leadership training workshops for board, council, and committee members, and other volunteers working with older adults. The book is divided into three main parts: (1) older Americans in technological society--which focuses on social and cultural adjustment, (2) effects of the aging process on social functioning--physical, mental, psychosocial, and psychological factors of aging, and (3) development and administration of social programs for older adults. The final chapter works toward developing a philosophy about aging. (Bibliographies are included.) (MS)