This issue of Generations spotlights the rural elderly. The articles first cover a basic overview of the rural aged. Next is a range of policy issues related to rural service delivery followed by articles on research projects of concern to policy makers and service delivery personnel. Several fund raising and service programs are described. Pointed out is the reality that service delivery in rural areas often calls for innovative organization of resources such as crossing county lines, and using almost total volunteer labor and special technology i.e. radio and telephone systems. (BN)